North Dakota Assembly passes Senate Bill 21 12 to expand youth crisis services

The North Dakota State Legislature convened for the 69th Legislative Assembly on April 7, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 2112, which aims to expand crisis and stabilization services for children in need. The bill proposes amendments to the North Dakota Century Code, specifically targeting minors who are legal residents but have not been deemed eligible for services by the Department for Developmental Disability Services.

The primary focus of Senate Bill 2112 is to address the needs of youth with complex behavioral, developmental, or psychiatric issues who often face placement crises due to a lack of available services. Currently, about 5% of children in the foster care system exhibit such complex needs, which can lead to multiple disrupted placements and separation from family. The bill seeks to allow the Life Skills and Transition Center to serve as a temporary placement option for these vulnerable children, providing them with necessary stabilization and support.

During the session, supporters of the bill highlighted the urgent need for specialized care, noting that many children are currently placed in unsuitable environments, such as county offices, due to a lack of available options. The Life Skills Transition Program is designed to help these youth reintegrate into their communities and lead more independent lives.

However, the bill faced opposition from some representatives who expressed concerns about the appropriateness of using the Life Skills and Transition Center for children with mental health issues, arguing that the facility was originally intended for individuals with developmental disabilities. Critics pointed to historical issues surrounding the center and emphasized the need for community-based solutions rather than institutional placements.

Despite the debate, the House ultimately voted in favor of the bill, with a final tally of 65 votes in favor and 25 against. The bill includes a sunset provision, set to expire on June 30, 2027, and mandates a report to legislative management every six months regarding the number of children served under this act.

In conclusion, Senate Bill 2112 represents a significant step toward addressing the immediate needs of children in crisis within North Dakota's child welfare system, while also prompting ongoing discussions about the best long-term solutions for these vulnerable populations.