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Bill

HB 223

Family Law - Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations ("Know Before They Knock" Family Right to Notice Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Charlotte Crutchfield

Requires child protective services to notify families before investigating child abuse/neglect allegations, potentially compromising investigative integrity while protecting family rights to legal preparation.

Hearing 2/13 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 223

Legislative bill overview

HB 223 would require child protective services to provide advance notice to families before conducting child abuse and neglect investigations, with limited exceptions for imminent danger situations. The bill aims to give families time to prepare and potentially consult legal counsel before investigators arrive at their homes.

Why is this important

Child protective services investigations are traumatic events for families, and advance notice could allow parents to understand their rights and gather documentation. However, this requirement could also enable families to conceal evidence, coach children, or flee with at-risk children before investigators can assess safety concerns—creating a tension between family rights and child protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Child safety vs. investigation integrity: Advance notice may compromise investigators' ability to observe conditions and interview children naturally, potentially allowing evidence destruction or witness intimidation before assessment
  • Definition of "imminent danger": The exceptions carved out for imminent danger situations need precise legal definition to prevent abuse of the exception or inconsistent application across caseworkers
  • Resource implications: Implementing a notification system adds administrative burden to already-stretched child welfare agencies and may delay critical investigations

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

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