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SSB 1008

A bill for an act relating to family interactions during an ongoing child in need of assistance proceeding.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SF 287 ensures family interactions during CINA proceedings continue unless there's clear evidence of imminent risk, promoting family unity and support for children.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 287.
#childassistance #courts #families #healthandhumanservicesdepartment #juvenilejustice
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Bill Summary · SSB 1008

Summary of SSB 1008 (Renumbered as SF 287)

Purpose and Intent

SSB 1008, now renumbered as SF 287, is a proposed legislative bill aimed at regulating family interactions during ongoing Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) proceedings. The primary intent of the bill is to ensure that family interactions continue unless there is substantial evidence indicating that such interactions would pose an imminent risk to the child's life or health.

Key Provisions

  • Amendment to Section 232.102A: The bill amends the existing law regarding family interactions during CINA proceedings.
    • Current Law: Family interactions must continue unless a court or the Department of Health and Human Services determines they would be detrimental to the child.
    • Proposed Change: Family interactions shall continue regardless of a parent's non-compliance with court orders or departmental requirements, unless a court finds substantial evidence that such interactions would create an imminent risk to the child's life or health.

Impact

  • Families: The bill directly affects families involved in CINA proceedings by allowing continued interactions unless there is clear evidence of risk. This change aims to support family unity and maintain relationships during challenging circumstances.
  • Judicial System: Courts will have a more defined role in assessing the risks associated with family interactions, potentially leading to more cases being evaluated based on substantial evidence rather than assumptions of risk.
  • Department of Health and Human Services: The department will continue to play a critical role in assessing family interactions but will need to provide substantial evidence to restrict these interactions.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 14, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: February 3, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: February 5, 2025
  • Committee Report: February 11, 2025, approving the bill and renumbering it as SF 287.

Conclusion

SSB 1008 (SF 287) seeks to balance the need for child safety with the importance of family connections during CINA proceedings. By requiring substantial evidence for restricting family interactions, the bill aims to foster a supportive environment for children and families navigating the complexities of the judicial system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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