Alabama Lawmaker Files Bill to Ensure Parents Are Informed of Due Process Rights in DHR Investigations

State Representative Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) has introduced a bill aimed at ensuring parents and guardians under investigation by the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) are fully informed of their due process rights.

House Bill 340, known as the “DHR Transparency and Due Process Rights Notification Act,” would require DHR to provide written notification to parents or guardians when they are being investigated for child abuse or neglect. The notice would outline key rights, including the ability to review investigation records, record interactions with DHR investigators, and refuse home entry for interviews, drug tests, or medical examinations without a court order. The bill also makes it clear that anything parents say during an investigation can be used in civil or criminal court proceedings.

Paschal, a strong advocate for parental rights, said the legislation is about ensuring fairness in the child welfare system.

“Protecting children and others from harm is always our number one priority,” Paschal said. “But every American is guaranteed certain due process rights when being investigated by the government. Parents shouldn’t have to navigate a complex legal process without even knowing what their rights are.”

The bill also calls for additional training for DHR employees who conduct investigations, focusing on proper investigatory techniques and family preservation. Paschal believes these measures will help standardize procedures across Alabama’s 67 counties and prevent unnecessary family separations.

“Far too often, we hear stories of parents blindsided by the system, unaware of what they can and cannot do when faced with a DHR investigation,” Paschal added. “This bill makes sure parents have the information they need to defend themselves and their families while still allowing DHR to do its job in protecting children.”

Paschal also pointed out that false allegations of abuse and neglect can arise, particularly in the context of divorces and custody battles. Without clear guidance, he said, innocent parents can face unnecessary reputational damage or even wrongful loss of custody.

“We’ve seen situations where good parents get caught in the crossfire of a domestic dispute, and they don’t even realize they have rights in these investigations,” he said. “This bill isn’t about making it harder to protect kids—it’s about making sure parents are treated fairly in the process.”

House Bill 340 has been introduced and is awaiting review by the House Children and Senior Advocacy Committee. If passed, it would mark a significant shift in how DHR conducts investigations and communicates with parents in Alabama.