MN HF1966

Amends Minnesota foster care statutes to prohibit children in foster care from exposure to secondhand smoke in licensed foster homes, attached enclosed spaces (garages, porches, decks), and motor vehicles used for transporting foster children.

Requires home studies for prospective foster parents to assess their capacity to maintain a smoke-free home environment and include a plan for compliance.

Mandates child-placing agencies to ensure licensed foster homes maintain smoke-free environments and require training on health risks of secondhand smoke if foster parents fail to comply.

Allows smoking in outdoor areas on home premises only when no foster child is present and exposed to secondhand smoke.

Permits exceptions where placement in a home that does not meet smoke-free requirements serves the child's best interests, and exempts traditional or spiritual Native American and religious ceremonies involving tobacco use.