AL SB304

Adds physical therapists and employees of public and private postsecondary and higher education institutions to the list of mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect.

Clarifies that school employees, teachers, and officials at both public and private K-12 schools are required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect.

Makes it a Class C misdemeanor for any public or private employer to discharge, suspend, discipline, or penalize an employee for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect.

Maintains clergy privilege exemption, allowing members of the clergy to withhold information gained solely in confidential communications protected under Alabama Rules of Evidence Rule 505.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.