Courts would need safety conditions to return certain children to caregivers

Juvenile courts would limit when they release certain children to caregivers. This covers children alleged or found to need services under six listed provisions when release would be to a parent, guardian, or custodian. A court could release a covered child if it orders appropriate conditions to keep the child safe. This rule would start July 1, 2026.

Indiana’s definition of domestic or family violence would include nonphysical conduct. The definition covers conduct involving family or household members. An act of self-defense does not count among the household-member acts listed in the definition. This definition would take effect July 1, 2026.

Indiana’s court administration office would develop and run ongoing training. The program would serve judges, magistrates, and other court workers, including people appointed to speak for children in court. The program must cover child abuse and family violence, use research from recognized experts, and help courts respond to trauma and make custody decisions in children’s best interests. The training provision would take effect July 1, 2026.