Children: child abuse or child neglect; exceptions to the definition of child neglect; provide. Amends sec. 2 of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.622).

HB 5163 amends Michigan's child neglect definition to clarify that parents or guardians who refuse a health professional's recommended treatment plan - while actively seeking a second opinion or following another provider's plan - do not commit child neglect. This directly affects parents, guardians, and healthcare providers making medical decisions for children. The bill adds this exception to the neglect definition, stating such refusal constitutes "prima facie evidence" that neglect did not occur, unless there's clear evidence immediate harm would result. It does not change other neglect standards or require new reporting.