Children - As enacted, clarifies, in the context of juvenile courts and proceedings, who constitutes a "dependent and neglected child." - Amends TCA Title 37.

This bill clarifies the legal definition of a "dependent and neglected child" within Tennessee's juvenile court system. It specifies that a child must be dependent or neglected at the time a petition is filed, rather than at any other point in time. Additionally, the law expands the definition of neglect to include situations where a parent or guardian cannot provide necessary mental health or substance abuse treatment due to circumstances beyond their control. These changes apply to all juvenile court proceedings that occur on or after July 1, 2024.