NC S581

Amends the definition of "neglected juvenile" in G.S. 7B-101(15) to create an exemption for children engaging in independent activities without adult supervision

Allows parents, guardians, custodians, or caretakers to permit unsupervised independent activities if a reasonable and prudent parent would consider them safe and appropriate based on the child's age, maturity, and physical and mental abilities

Defines protected independent activities as: travelling to and from school (walking, running, or bicycling), travelling to nearby commercial or recreational facilities, remaining at home for a reasonable period of time, and playing outdoors

Effective immediately upon becoming law