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House approves bill narrowing state definition of juvenile neglect after extended debate
Summary
The Georgia House passed Senate Bill 110 to tighten the state's statutory definition of neglect, clarifying that common independent activities by children are not neglect. The measure passed 100'69 after several hours of floor debate about parental authority and law enforcement discretion.
The Georgia House on Wednesday approved Senate Bill 110, a measure that revises definitions in the state's juvenile code to limit when parents can be charged with neglect. Chairman Eddie Lumsden, presenting the bill on the floor, said the change makes the definition more specific and "gives parenting decisions back to Georgia parents and childhood back to Georgia children." The bill passed 100'69, meeting the constitutional majority required.
Supporters said the bill clarifies that ordinary childhood activities'walking to school, unsupervised outdoor play, traveling to nearby facilities, and brief periods home alone'are not…
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