ND HB1029

Creates a new crime of child neglect as a class C felony, covering failure to provide proper parental care, allowing children in disreputable places, and permitting children to engage in dangerous occupations.

Separates child abuse and neglect into distinct offenses by removing neglect-related provisions from the general abuse statute and creating a standalone neglect section.

Increases penalties for child abuse involving victims under age six from class C to class B felony, and to class A felony if the victim is under six and suffers permanent loss or impairment of bodily function.

Clarifies that persons providing childcare services who inflict injury on a child are guilty of class B felony, with sex offenses prosecuted under separate chapters.

Updates the definition of "abused child" in child welfare law to reference only physical abuse provisions, distinguishing it from sexual abuse which is addressed through separate statutes.