MT SB384

Department of Public Health and Human Services may temporarily remove and place a child in protective placement for up to 15 days due to "temporary hardship," defined as temporary physical, medical, or legal circumstances preventing a parent or guardian from providing safety and supervision

Child must be returned home within 15 days unless the parent/guardian cannot resume care or make necessary safety arrangements, in which case the department may file a petition for emergency protective services

Removes the requirement for emergency protective services hearings within 5 business days for temporary hardship placements, exempting these cases from standard affidavit and petition filing timelines

Parents must be notified of removal and informed of the 15-day procedures specific to temporary hardship cases, along with standard information about hearings and legal rights

Amends sections 41-3-102, 41-3-202, 41-3-301, and 41-3-306 of Montana Code Annotated to integrate temporary hardship provisions into existing child protective services framework