CA SB478

Authorizes up to 10 California counties to establish an Internet-based reporting system for child abuse and neglect by mandated reporters until January 1, 2021.

Permits only specified mandated reporters (peace officers, probation officers, social workers, school personnel, physicians, psychologists, nurses, clinical social workers, and coroners) to use the online system for cases that do not indicate immediate risk of severe harm or death.

Requires the Internet reporting system to include standardized safety assessment questions, mandatory completion of all fields including reporter identity, and appropriate security protocols to maintain confidentiality.

Allows mandated reporters using the Internet-based tool to submit initial reports online instead of by telephone and exempts them from submitting separate written follow-up reports.

Requires participating counties to hire evaluators, develop outcome measures to track effectiveness, and report to the Legislature by January 1, 2020; authorizes the State Department of Social Services to terminate the program early if child safety is compromised.