ND SB2340

Amends North Dakota Century Code section 14-15-01 to redefine "abandon" in the context of parental rights termination.

For noncustodial parents, "abandon" means significantly failing without justifiable cause to communicate with the child through physical contact or oral conversation, or to provide care and support as required by law.

For custodial parents, "abandon" includes leaving a child for an indefinite period without firm and agreed plans with the child's immediate caregiver for resuming physical custody.

For custodial parents, "abandon" also includes failing to arrange for a child's discharge from a hospital within ten days after the child no longer requires hospital care following birth or treatment.

For custodial parents, "abandon" includes willfully failing to furnish food, shelter, clothing, or medical attention reasonably sufficient to meet the child's needs.