SF700 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Meaning of neglect modification by permitting a parent or caregiver to allow children to engage in certain independent activities without adult supervision
AI Generated Summary
Senate Bill SF No 700 is a proposal to modify the definition of neglect under Minnesota law. It aims to clarify that allowing children to participate in certain independent activities without constant adult supervision does not, by itself, constitute neglect. The bill specifies that such independence is permissible based on the child's age, maturity, and their physical and mental capabilities. Activities deemed appropriate can include things like traveling to school on their own, playing outside, or staying at home alone for a reasonable period. The bill stresses that this independence should not endanger the child's health or safety due to gross negligence. Overall, the proposed changes seek to give parents more flexibility in deciding when their children are ready for certain responsibilities, without the risk of being labeled neglectful.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
| January 26, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Health and Human Services |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Clarifies that allowing independent activities is not neglect if appropriate for the child's age and ability."
],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill modifies the definition of neglect under section 260E.03, subdivision 15.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "260E.03"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill references section 120A.22 in the context of child education requirements.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "120A.22"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill references section 260C.163, subdivision 11 in the context of education requirements related to neglect.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "260C.163"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill references section 253B.02, subdivision 2 in relation to prenatal exposure to controlled substances.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "253B.02"
},
{
"analysis": {
"added": [],
"removed": [],
"summary": "This bill references section 260C.007, subdivision 6 clause 5 in the context of defining medical neglect.",
"modified": []
},
"citation": "260C.007"
}
]