MN HF3391

Expands the definition of "child in need of protection or services" to include a new category (16) for children whose parent had parental rights involuntarily terminated or custodial rights transferred to a relative regarding another child, when a case plan documents compelling reasons not to file for termination of parental rights.

Grants grandparents the right to participate in child protection proceedings to the same extent as parents if the child lived with the grandparent within the two years preceding the petition filing, with courts required to inquire about this relationship at the first hearing.

Allows named relatives to participate as parties in permanency proceedings when the responsible social services agency recommends or any party files a petition for transfer of permanent legal and physical custody to that relative.

Clarifies that failure to notify a grandparent of proceedings is not a jurisdictional defect, ensuring proceedings can proceed without formal notice requirements.

Makes technical amendments to provisions on immediate custody of children, including references to Indian Child Welfare Act compliance for Indian children on reservations.