CA AB2805

Changes the evidentiary standard for ordering reunification services when a child under 5 years old suffered severe physical abuse from "competent testimony" to "competent evidence" in cases under subdivision (b)(5) of Section 361.5 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

Applies to dependency court proceedings where a court must decide whether to order family reunification services for a parent or guardian of a removed child.

Does not expand or restrict the circumstances under which reunification services can be denied, only modifies the type of evidence required to support the decision.

Effective upon approval by the Governor on September 30, 2020, with no appropriation or fiscal impact.