CA AB2017

Establishes "Kelsey's Law" as the name for this act amending California's Evidence Code hearsay exceptions.

Expands the hearsay exception for child abuse statements to include victims over 12 years of age if the court determines they have an intellectual disability.

Previously the exception only applied to victims under 12 years of age; this amendment extends protection to older minors with intellectual disabilities describing abuse.

Requires the court to find in a hearing outside jury presence that the statement has sufficient reliability based on time, content, and circumstances.

Maintains existing requirements that the victim either testifies or is unavailable, with corroborating evidence of abuse required if the victim does not testify.