GA HB552

Creates exceptions to child cruelty and reckless conduct laws for parents who allow children to engage in independent activities consistent with the child's maturity, including walking to school, outdoor play, remaining in vehicles under safe conditions, and staying home alone

Revises the definition of "neglect" in Georgia's juvenile code to exclude good-faith parental decisions permitting children's independent activities such as traveling independently, playing outdoors unsupervised, or staying home alone when the parent returns the same day and the child can contact an adult

Prohibits state and local government entities from detaining, arresting, charging, or investigating parents acting in compliance with these provisions unless a child appears injured, in distress, or at imminent risk of harm from an identifiable source

Grants immunity from criminal and civil liability to state and local government officers, employees, and agents who act in good faith compliance with the new provisions

Effective date of July 1, 2025, with criminal offense provisions applying to offenses committed on or after that date