AZ HB2228

Amends section 8-456 to require DCS investigators to consider whether a child should be assessed and interviewed at a child and family advocacy center during abuse or neglect investigations.

Adds section 8-466 establishing requirements for child and family advocacy centers to be eligible for DCS referrals, including membership in a state-identified multidisciplinary organization.

Requires advocacy centers to maintain a neutral victim-focused facility with evidence-based forensic interviews for suspected child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, and juvenile sex trafficking cases.

Mandates multidisciplinary case review teams consisting of department representatives, county attorneys, law enforcement, mental health providers, victim advocates, and forensic medical professionals meeting regularly.

Requires advocacy centers to collect and report data every six months on cases served by demographics, prosecution referrals, and mental health referrals, and to provide or arrange medical and mental health services meeting national standards.