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ND HB1556
Bill
Status
4/24/2025
Primary Sponsor
Greg Stemen
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AI Summary
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Expands the definition of "child in need of protection" to include children diagnosed with severe mental health conditions or behavioral disorders who have committed violent or sexual acts against household family members and whose parents cannot provide proper control
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Amends disposition provisions to allow courts to consider protection of the family (not just the child) and explicitly requires children in need of protection to participate in treatment alongside parents or guardians
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Exempts children found in need of protection solely due to behavioral health issues from triggering mandatory termination of parental rights petitions, preserving family reunification options
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Creates a workgroup under the children's cabinet during the 2025-26 interim to study out-of-home placement and treatment for children with serious behavioral health issues, including those involved in juvenile court proceedings
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The statutory amendments expire July 31, 2027, and the bill is declared an emergency measure; passed unanimously (House 91-0, Senate 46-0)
Legislative Description
A child in need of protection and termination of parental rights; to create a workgroup under the children's cabinet to study out-of-home placement or treatment of children with behavioral health issues; to provide for a report; to provide an expiration date; and to declare an emergency.
Last Action
Filed with Secretary Of State 04/23
4/25/2025