Child and Family Services Amendments
What changed between versions
Foster children can no longer share bedrooms with children of the opposite biological sex unless specific exceptions apply (both under age 2, all are relatives, or there is written caseworker approval).
Division of Child and Family Services cannot withhold information about a child's gender identity or sexual orientation from parents, guardians, or custodians.
Division cannot place a child with a foster parent who expresses discomfort based on the child's gender identity or sexual orientation, and cannot take adverse action against such foster parents.
Updated definitions of abuse and neglect to clarify what constitutes severe types of child abuse or neglect, including specific exclusions for certain medical decisions and religious practices.
New definitions for 'gender identity' and 'sexual orientation' added to the juvenile code to ensure consistent application across child welfare proceedings.
Courts cannot deny reunification services or discriminate in custody determinations solely based on a parent's agreement or disagreement with a child's gender identity or sexual orientation.
