CO HB1090

Amends Colorado law to establish that a child is not considered neglected when allowed to participate in independent activities that a reasonable and prudent parent would consider safe based on the child's maturity, condition, and abilities.

Specifically protects activities including traveling to and from school by walking, running, bicycling, or similar modes; traveling to nearby commercial or recreational facilities; engaging in outdoor play; and remaining alone in a safe home or location.

Replaces the prior definition of "neglect" that broadly covered any acts reasonably construable as child abuse or neglect with a narrower standard that exempts reasonable independent activities from neglect findings.

Takes effect 12:01 a.m. on the day following the ninety-day period after final adjournment of the general assembly, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case approval at the November 2022 general election is required.