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Bill

Bill

LC 1942

Generally revise laws relating to Dependent Abuse and Neglect

2025 Regular Session

A broad rewrite of dependent abuse/neglect laws in family court, redefining terms and procedures for CPS investigations, removals, and permanency for minors; draft died.

(LC) Draft Died in Process
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Bill Summary · LC 1942

Summary of LC 1942 — Generally revise laws relating to Dependent Abuse and Neglect

Overview

  • Bill Number: LC 1942
  • Title: Generally revise laws relating to Dependent Abuse and Neglect
  • Subject: Family Law (Minors)
  • Classification: Bill
  • Introduced: November 23, 2024
  • Current Status: Draft Died in Process (as of May 27, 2025)

Status and Timeline

  • 2024-11-23: Drafter Assigned
  • 2025-02-24: Draft On Hold
  • 2025-05-27: Draft Died in Process

Notes: The bill has not advanced beyond the drafting stage in the reported session cycle. The GA/legislative record does not provide the text or specific provisions, and the draft has since been listed as on hold and ultimately died in process.

Purpose and Scope

  • The bill is described as a broad revision of laws related to dependent abuse and neglect within the realm of family law concerning minors.
  • With only the title and classification available, the exact aims, definitions, and reform areas are not specified in the accessible summary. The intended scope would typically address how abuse/neglect are defined, the responsibilities of child protective services, reporting requirements, investigation procedures, court processes, and permanency planning for affected children.

Potential Provisions (If Enacted)

Because the full text is not provided, potential areas such legislation commonly addresses include:
- Redefinition of terms related to dependent abuse and neglect (e.g., who is considered a dependent, what constitutes abuse/neglect).
- Standards and timelines for investigations by child protective services.
- Procedures for removal, placement, and foster care protections that prioritize child safety and well-being.
- Permanency planning, including timelines for reunification, guardianship, or adoption.
- Guardians ad litem and other court procedures to safeguard minors’ interests in related proceedings.
- Confidentiality, data collection, and reporting requirements for agencies and courts.
- Funding, staffing, training, and interagency coordination for program implementation.
- Protections against undue delays and safeguards for families undergoing review.

Affected Parties

  • Dependent children and minors involved in abuse/neglect proceedings
  • Families and guardians of dependent minors
  • Child protective services agencies, law enforcement, and judiciary
  • Court-appointed professionals (e.g., guardians ad litem, social workers)
  • Service providers (foster care, counseling, and family support programs)

Practical Considerations and Next Steps

  • Readers seeking the bill’s specifics should consult the official Legislative Information System or the drafter’s office for the full text and any amendments.
  • If revived in a future session, expect a more detailed outline of definitions, procedures, timelines, and funding needs.

This summary reflects the information available publicly about LC 1942. It does not include the bill’s text, which would provide the exact provisions and impacts.

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

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