This bill, Senate File No. 1841, aims to amend Minnesota statutes to allow for judicial review of child maltreatment cases occurring outside of Minnesota. It also assigns responsibility to local welfare agencies in Minnesota to assess or investigate allegations of child maltreatment that took place in another state or country if either the alleged perpetrator or the child resides in Minnesota.

Key Provisions:

1. Judicial Review Expansion:

   • Aggrieved parties can appeal orders from the Commissioner of Human Services, the Commissioner of Health, or the Commissioner of Children, Youth, and Families in district court.
   • If the maltreatment occurred outside of Minnesota, the appeal must be filed in the county where the alleged perpetrator or the child resides.
   • Filing and notification requirements for appeals are outlined, including service of written notice and deadlines for filing.

2. Local Welfare Agency Involvement:

   • If child maltreatment is alleged to have occurred in another state or country, Minnesota's local welfare agencies are authorized to assess or investigate if the alleged perpetrator or child resides in Minnesota.
   • Legal classification: Such an allegation is considered a Minnesota child maltreatment report at the time the incident occurred.

Impact:

• Ensures that child maltreatment occurring outside of Minnesota can still be reviewed and addressed within the state's judicial system.
• Expands Minnesota's child protection system by allowing local agencies to investigate out-of-state or international allegations when connected to Minnesota residents.
• Strengthens accountability and potential legal consequences for perpetrators who move across state or national borders.

This bill broadens the state's role in child protection and legal oversight, ensuring Minnesota courts and agencies can respond to maltreatment cases with ties to the state.