HB 24-1120 Summary

• County departments must provide written notice within 14 days to persons found responsible for child abuse or neglect before adding them to the automated child welfare system (TRAILS), informing them of the opportunity to appeal the finding.

• Written notice must include case history, appeal process details, information on obtaining the complete case record and law enforcement records at no cost, and contact information for the child protection ombudsman and respondent parents' counsel.

• Persons requesting a hearing have the right to legal representation, access to the full investigative file and exculpatory evidence at no cost, and the ability to present evidence, subpoena witnesses, cross-examine state witnesses, and make opening and closing statements.

• Administrative law judges must schedule hearings within 120 days of a person's request and issue written findings of fact and law based on preponderance of evidence within 35 days after the hearing concludes.

• The state board must promulgate rules by July 1, 2025, in collaboration with county departments and counsel offices to implement the appeals process and promote fairness and efficiency.