CA AB1929

Extends indefinitely the pilot program allowing county welfare agencies to develop internet-based reporting systems for child abuse and neglect by mandated reporters, removing the January 1, 2021 expiration date.

Permits internet-based reports from any mandated reporter for suspected child abuse or neglect that does not indicate immediate risk of harm, requiring standardized safety assessment questions and appropriate security protocols.

Allows mandated reporters to submit initial reports through the internet system in lieu of required telephone reports and exempts them from submitting written follow-up reports when using the online system.

Requires participating counties to hire an evaluator to monitor program implementation and submit evaluations to the State Department of Social Services during the first two years, tracking metrics including phone versus online reporting usage.

Mandates counties decommission their internet-based reporting systems when the State Department of Social Services notifies them that statewide internet-based reporting is available within the comprehensive child welfare information system.