SB392 Summary

• Requires mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect to both local law enforcement agencies and the Department of Human Resources through oral reports immediately followed by written reports.

• Designates local law enforcement agencies to investigate reports involving alleged criminal conduct while the Department of Human Resources investigates all other reports.

• Applies reporting requirement to hospitals, clinics, doctors, nurses, teachers, school officials, peace officers, social workers, mental health professionals, clergy (with confidentiality exceptions), and other professionals who encounter suspected child abuse or neglect.

• Requires law enforcement to notify the Department of Human Resources when receiving initial reports so the department can provide protective services when appropriate.

• Establishes that employers cannot discharge, suspend, discipline, or penalize employees solely for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect, with violations constituting a Class C misdemeanor.

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