HI HB2579

Requires the Department of Human Services to record all child welfare interviews involving abused, neglected, or at-risk children using electronic video, body cameras, or other reasonable recording methods.

Mandates secure retention of interview recordings for a minimum of five years with access controls and role-based permission management.

Restricts release of recordings to third parties, allowing disclosure only for investigations under section 587A-11, criminal prosecutions, or by court order to caregivers/guardians in judicial proceedings.

Establishes a misdemeanor criminal penalty for any state employee who violates the recording disclosure restrictions.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date.