GA HB1409

Expands the list of mandated child abuse reporters to include firefighters (career and volunteer) and animal service workers (animal control officers, humane society employees, animal cruelty investigators, and shelter personnel) whose duties bring them into contact with children or household conditions indicating abuse

Authorizes mandated reporters to submit child abuse reports through secure web-based platforms that comply with HIPAA, FBI Criminal Justice Information Services Security Policy, or FERPA, in addition to existing telephone and facsimile options

Requires the Division of Family and Children Services to make a report form available on its website and accept reports submitted through compliant secure web-based platforms without refusing to receive, log, or process such reports

Mandates training on mandatory reporting for users of any secure web-based platform, with requirements satisfiable through courses from DFCS or organizations with demonstrated expertise in mandated reporting

Requires the Department of Human Services to adopt rules by January 1, 2027, addressing criteria and standards for intake, disposition, and investigation of abuse or neglect reports