INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:75-19-17

1.  The release of any information from the Child Abuse Neglect Information System to an Indian tribe without a court order is only authorized when the tribe:

• (1) is involved in a current child abuse or neglect investigation of an Indian child;
• (2) is providing services to an Indian child as the result of abuse or neglect; or
• (3) has intervened, taken jurisdiction, or is a party in a deprived matter.  

2.  Only information related to the specific child involved in the investigation or case is released.

3.  The Child Welfare (CW) worker staffs any request for the release of records with the CW supervisor prior to releasing any records.  The CW worker contacts the Legal Division if there are questions or concerns regarding the request from the tribal official.