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Bill

HSB 40

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

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 367 ensures family interactions continue during CINA proceedings unless clear evidence shows they pose an imminent risk to a child's health or life.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 367.
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Bill Summary · HSB 40

Summary of HSB 40 (Renumbered as HF 367)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 40, now known as HF 367, is a proposed legislative bill aimed at modifying the regulations surrounding 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

The bill amends Section 232.102A of the Code 2025, specifically addressing the conditions under which family interactions can be restricted during CINA proceedings. The key provisions include:

  • Continuation of Family Interactions: Family interactions are mandated to continue regardless of a parent's non-compliance with court orders or departmental requirements, unless:
    • A court or the Department of Health and Human Services finds that these interactions would be detrimental to the child.
    • There is substantial evidence that the interactions, whether supervised or unsupervised, would cause an imminent risk to the child's life or health.

Impact

The bill affects families involved in CINA proceedings, particularly parents and children. By allowing continued family interactions unless clear evidence of risk is presented, the bill aims to promote family unity and support during challenging times. This could have significant implications for the emotional and psychological well-being of children involved in these proceedings.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 17, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: January 27, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: January 27, 2025 (recommended passage)
  • Committee Vote: February 11, 2025 (14 Yeas, 7 Nays)
  • Committee Report: February 11, 2025 (recommending passage)
  • Committee Report Approving Bill: February 12, 2025 (renumbered as HF 367)

Conclusion

HSB 40 (HF 367) seeks to balance the need for child safety with the importance of maintaining family connections during CINA proceedings. By setting a higher threshold for restricting family interactions, the bill aims to foster a supportive environment for children while ensuring their safety is prioritized.

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

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