AB 1001 Summary

• Expands the definition of "mandated reporter" to include board members of public or private organizations whose duties require direct contact and supervision of children, including foster family agencies.

• Requires the Department of Social Services to develop and post a notice in all foster family agencies by July 1, 2017 that includes complaint procedures, information about prohibitions on impeding mandated reports, and options for confidential complaints.

• Mandates that foster family agency orientations required by the licensing agency include descriptions of policies, procedures, or practices that violate mandated reporter provisions.

• Authorizes the Department of Social Services to take reasonable action, including prohibiting individuals from serving as board members, upon finding violations of mandated reporter provisions.

• Specifies that failure to report child abuse or neglect remains a misdemeanor, and establishes that no state reimbursement is required for local agency costs related to this mandate.