CT SB00315

Extends reporting deadlines for mental health and behavioral health recommendations from July 1, 2018 to October 1, 2018, and updates annual reporting requirements for the Children's Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Health Plan Implementation Advisory Board.

Simplifies infant safe surrender procedures by removing written notice requirements and allowing mothers to provide notice verbally to any licensed health care provider in the hospital.

Permits mandated reporters to make electronic reports of suspected child abuse or neglect in addition to oral reports, with electronic reports made within 12 hours and followed by written or electronic confirmation within 48 hours.

Establishes a pilot program allowing select categories of mandated reporters to submit electronic child abuse and neglect reports in a manner prescribed by the commissioner, operating from July 1, 2018 to September 30, 2019.

Updates terminology and definitions throughout the Department of Children and Families statutes, including clarifying the definition of "fictive kin caregiver" to include relationships with a child's family.