SF1682

This bill (S.F. No. 1682) proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 260C.007, subdivision 6, refining the definition of a "child in need of protection or services" (CHIPS). The amendment clarifies when a child is considered to be without the special care necessary due to a physical, mental, or emotional condition. Specifically, it states that a parent, guardian, or custodian should not be considered unable or unwilling to provide required special care solely because a child remains in a hospital or emergency department due to lack of access to residential treatment or unavailability of necessary services.

The bill also maintains various other criteria for a child to be considered in need of protection or services, such as abandonment, abuse, neglect, exposure to dangerous environments, or involvement in juvenile offenses. Additionally, it adjusts the age threshold for certain juvenile offenses categorized under CHIPS, with the minimum age increasing from 10 to 13 by August 1, 2026.