ND SB2251

Creates an "alternative response assessment" process for substance exposed newborns (infants under 28 days old affected by substance abuse, withdrawal symptoms, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder) as an alternative to traditional child abuse investigations.

Allows the Department of Human Services to initiate an alternative response assessment if appropriate, involving referral services, support service monitoring, and development of a plan of safe care for the affected newborn.

Provides that if a person responsible for the child's welfare complies with referred services and the safe care plan, no determination that services are required may be made under the alternative response assessment.

Extends liability immunity protections to persons participating in good faith in alternative response assessments, similar to existing immunity for traditional child abuse investigations.

Requires the department to adopt caseload standards establishing minimum staff-to-client ratios for assessments and alternative response assessments, with the state reimbursing authorized agents for 75 percent of additional staffing costs.