H.F. 5021 Summary

• Eliminates parental financial responsibility for out-of-home placements of children in state care when parents or guardians reside in Minnesota, effective for services under sections 246.511, 251.012, 254B.04, and 256B.14.

• Changes language in juvenile delinquency statutes (section 260B.331) to prohibit courts from ordering parents to contribute to the cost of care, examination, or treatment of children in out-of-home placement.

• Changes language in child protection statutes (section 260C.331) to prohibit courts from ordering parents to contribute to the cost of care, examination, or treatment of children in out-of-home placement.

• Retains authority for courts to order children's own income and resources (Social Security, SSI, child support, veterans benefits) to be used for reimbursement, with limited exceptions for foster care transitions and reunification planning.

• Adds exemption preventing parents from being required to reimburse county costs when a child is returned home on a trial home visit under reunification plans.