BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Working Together to Keep Kids Safe: Why HB 1095 Matters.

District 24 Representative Dwight Kiefert said every child deserves to feel safe at school and at home. House Bill 1095, which I introduced, recently passed by the North Dakota Legislature with strong bipartisan support and is a major step forward in protecting our most vulnerable students. Too often, teachers and school staff are the first to notice signs of abuse or neglect, but once they file a report with Child Protective Services (CPS), they’re left in the dark. They don’t know whether action was taken, if the child is still in danger, or whether or not they should make another report. This breakdown in communication can lead to devastating consequences, as tragically illustrated in the death of a 13-year-old North Dakota boy who, despite multiple school reports, fell through the cracks and lost his life to abuse and neglect.

HB 1095 changes that. It allows local school districts and their human service zones to voluntarily form child safety liaison work groups. These groups will meet at least twice a year and will be made up of equal members from schools and human services. Together, they’ll focus on better communication, clear roles, shared training needs, and service coordination. The goal is simple: save lives and support children by closing the communication gap.

Supported by the North Dakota School Boards Association, school superintendents, and educators across the state, this bill encourages collaboration without imposing unfunded mandates. It recognizes that educators are not investigators, but they are critical allies in keeping children safe. Under HB 1095, school districts will finally have a seat at the table in working with CPS, not to replace their work, but to strengthen it. This legislation is both compassionate and practical. It ensures our systems are working together for the children they serve.