Idaho Senate Bill 1257: An Act Relating To Child Protection

Idaho Senate Bill 1257 was signed on March 25, 2026. It goes into effect on July 1, 2026. The provisions revise state statute to more clearly define abuse, abandonment, and aggravated circumstances, expanding definitions to include chronic neglect, sexual abuse, torture, and homicide, as well as circumstances preceding involuntary termination of parental rights. The legislation also establishes updated standards for foster care operations, including more defined permanency planning processes, tighter parameters for the use of psychotropic medications, and clarified visitation guidelines . . .