SB187

Existing law authorizes an agent or officer of a law enforcement agency, an officer of the local juvenile probation department or the local department of juvenile services, or a designee of an agency which provides child welfare services to place a child in protective custody: (1) with the consent of the parent or legal guardian of the child; or (2) under certain circumstances indicating that the child is in need of protection from injury, abuse or neglect. (NRS 432B.390) Under existing law, within 72 hours after the placement of a child in protective custody, a court is required to hold a hearing to determine whether the child should remain in protective custody and, if so, where the child will be temporarily placed. (NRS 432B.470, 432B.480) If the court orders that the child remain in protective custody, existing law requires the agency which provides child welfare services to file a petition alleging that the child is in need of protection, unless good cause exists not to file such a petition. (NRS 432B.490) Within 30 days after the filing of such a petition, existing law requires the court to hold a hearing to determine the custody and placement of the child. (NRS 432B.530, 432B.550) Existing law requires the court to review such a placement at least semiannually and within 90 days after a request by a party to any of the prior proceedings. (NRS 432B.580) Section 2 of this bill requires an agency which provides child welfare services to provide or deny consent to non-emer