ND HB1260

Amends the definition of "mental injury" in North Dakota Century Code section 50-25.1-02 to clarify it means an injury to the intellectual or psychological capacity of a child as evidenced by a discernible and substantial impairment in the ability to function within the normal range of performance and behavior.

Expands the definition of reportable abuse and neglect in section 50-25.1-03 to explicitly include mental injury to a child through manipulation or psychological abuse, including parental alienation.

Requires mandatory reporters (dentists, medical professionals, mental health professionals, teachers, school counselors, law enforcement, clergy, child care workers, and others) to report suspected mental injury to the Department of Human Services when knowledge is derived from their official or professional capacity.

Permits any person with reasonable cause to suspect a child has suffered mental injury through manipulation or psychological abuse to voluntarily report such circumstances to the department.