Arizona law limits when caregivers face child neglect or abuse charges

A parent, guardian, or custodian cannot be treated as neglectful or charged with neglect solely because they cannot provide a child's care. The provision covers a child's supervision, food, clothing, shelter, or medical care. The inability must result solely from a lack of financial resources available to the caregiver.

A parent cannot be treated as abusive, neglectful, or abandoning a child, or charged with those acts, solely for seeking inpatient care or an out-of-home placement. This covers a parent's biological, foster, or adoptive child. The child's behavioral health needs must pose a risk to the safety and welfare of the family.

A parent cannot be treated as abusive or neglectful, or charged with abuse or neglect, solely for bringing a child into the home. This covers a biological, foster, or adoptive child. The child's behavioral health needs must pose a risk to the safety and welfare of the family.