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Schools seek ability to refer more ungovernable behavior to CHINS; advocates and human-service directors warn against changing “custodian” definition
Summary
The House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on House Bill 1328, which would change who can refer certain ungovernable student behavior to CHINS and allow CHINS to refer some cases to juvenile court.
The House Judiciary Committee heard testimony on House Bill 1328, which would alter the juvenile statutes to expand which behaviors schools can refer to the Child in Need of Services (CHINS) process and would allow CHINS to refer certain matters directly to juvenile court.
Why it matters: School leaders described a gap for students who repeatedly refuse voluntary services and disrupt school; they said the bill would add “teeth” to compel family engagement. Human-service zone directors and disability advocates countered the proposed change to the legal definition of “custodian” could carry unintended legal powers and would increase CHINS caseloads without additional funding.
Dr. Carly Reederath, assistant superintendent for Mandan Public Schools, told the committee her district uses day-treatment programs, family liaisons, and other supports but still…
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