HB 5214
Relating to drug testing of parents who have had abuse and/or neglect claims substantiated against them prior to reunification.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill requires drug testing for parents who have had abuse or neglect claims substantiated against them before reunification with their children. The testing will screen for substances like kratom. The court must consider drug test results as part of its decision-making process regarding reunification and other dispositional options. It also outlines specific circumstances under which parental rights may be terminated, including repeated abuse, neglect, or failure to cooperate with treatment plans.
Key provisions
- Requires drug testing of parents with substantiated abuse or neglect claims prior to reunification.
- Specifies substances to be screened for during drug testing (e.g., kratom).
- Outlines factors considered in dispositional decisions, including parental substance use and refusal of treatment.
- Establishes a six-month improvement period with required rectifications before parental rights can be terminated.
- Addresses guardian ad litem requirements and supervision.
- Clarifies circumstances under which parental rights may not be terminated based on medication-assisted treatment.
- Details the court’s consideration of the child’s needs and best interests in all dispositional decisions.
- Defines ‘no reasonable likelihood’ of correcting neglect or abuse conditions.
Who is affected
- Parents involved in child abuse and neglect cases
- Children involved in child abuse and neglect cases
- Foster care agencies
- Family court judges
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