providing children in delinquency and children in need of services (CHINS) cases the identical types of psychological evaluations as children in child protection matters.

SB 77 requires that children in delinquency cases and children in need of services (CHINS) cases receive the same types of psychological evaluations as children in child protection matters. This standardizes mental health assessment requirements across these child welfare contexts, directly affecting minors involved in juvenile court and child welfare proceedings. The bill mandates identical evaluation protocols to ensure consistent access to necessary psychological assessments regardless of case type. It became law on June 10, 2025, and takes effect on August 9, 2025.