HI SCR136

Encourages the Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Human Services, Department of the Attorney General, and Judiciary to incorporate research and strategies regarding adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) into their work with children suffering from trauma.

Defines adverse childhood experiences as abuse, neglect, and traumatic or disruptive events during childhood that cause damage to a child's developing brain, including physical/emotional/sexual abuse, domestic violence, community violence, parental incarceration, and natural disasters.

Cites CDC-Kaiser Permanente study findings that two-thirds of participants experienced at least one ACE, and notes cumulative effects increase risks for behavioral, mental, physical health, and learning problems throughout life.

Identifies high-risk behaviors and health consequences linked to ACEs including alcoholism, drug abuse, depression, heart disease, obesity, suicide, and intergenerational cycles of violence and trauma.

Requires the Department of the Attorney General to submit a report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2018 Regular Session outlining each agency's plans to incorporate ACE research and strategies into their work with traumatized children.