CT HB06889

Removes the June 30, 2020 filing date restriction for petitions involving children from families with service needs, effective October 1, 2023.

Adds new criterion (E) to the definition of "family with service needs" for children age 13 or older who engage in sexual intercourse with another person age 13 or older and not more than two years older or younger.

Establishes a three-stage referral process: probation officers must assess complaints and refer families to community-based programs or family support centers before petitions can be filed with the court.

Requires courts to order educational evaluations for children found to be habitually truant and prohibits dismissing truancy-related petitions solely because they were filed in April, May, or June.

Mandates permanency hearings at least every 12 months for children committed to the Commissioner of Children and Families, with court review of permanency plans that may include goals of revocation, guardianship transfer, relative placement, adoption, or other arrangements.