HB 1966 Summary

• Parents, the state, or child may demand a jury trial on termination of parental rights only when the initial petition includes a termination request or after a child is adjudicated deprived; jury consists of 6 persons and must commence within 6 months of scheduling order.

• Party that fails to file written jury demand within 15 days of notice or fails to appear without good cause shall be deemed to have waived the right to jury trial unless another party demands one or court orders it.

• Individualized service plans must be developed with participation of parents, child's attorney, guardian ad litem, and child's tribe; plans must be written in clear English or parent's primary language and include specific services, performance criteria, and permanency goals.

• Court shall conduct permanency hearings within 6 months of out-of-home placement and every 6 months thereafter; court must make written findings on reasonable efforts to finalize permanency plans and consider child's preference for children age 14 and older.

• Reunification requires that reunification can be expected within an established timeframe consistent with child's developmental needs and that child's health and safety can be adequately safeguarded if returned home; act becomes effective November 1, 2025.