CO HB1204

Creates the "Colorado Indian Child Welfare Act" codifying the federal Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 into state law to protect Indian children in custody proceedings should federal law be modified or overturned

Establishes mandatory procedures for courts to determine whether a child in custody proceedings is an Indian child, including specific inquiry requirements, due diligence standards, and notice requirements to parents, Indian custodians, and tribes via certified mail

Requires "active efforts" (a higher standard than reasonable efforts) to prevent removal of Indian children from families and to reunify families, including culturally appropriate services developed in partnership with the child's tribe

Sets placement preferences prioritizing extended family members, tribal-approved foster homes, other tribal members, and Indian families when Indian children require out-of-home care or adoption

Requires biennial reporting by the Department of Human Services on Indian children in protective custody, foster care, and adoptive placements, with first report due December 1, 2027