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DE HB268
Bill
Status
3/3/2016
Primary Sponsor
Melanie Smith
Click for details
AI Summary
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Requires healthcare providers involved in delivery or care of substance exposed infants (newborns affected by illegal drug exposure or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) to notify the Division of Family Services.
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Establishes requirement for Division to develop a written "plan of safe care" for substance exposed infants and medically fragile children accepted for investigation or family assessment, shared with healthcare providers prior to hospital discharge.
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Defines substance exposed infant as a child not more than 4 weeks old born in Delaware who is identified as affected by illegal substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms from prenatal drug exposure, or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
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Implements federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) requirements through a non-punitive, public health-oriented approach that prioritizes family preservation while ensuring infant safety.
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Takes effect 180 days after enactment to allow Division and healthcare providers time to develop necessary trainings and protocols; known as "Aiden's Law."
Legislative Description
An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Substance Exposed Infants And Medically Fragile Children.
Last Action
Stricken
4/14/2016