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ID H0020
Bill
Status
1/20/2023
Primary Sponsor
Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee
Click for details
AI Summary
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Makes false reporting of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine up to $1,000, county jail confinement up to three months, or both.
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Establishes civil liability for false reports, requiring defendants to pay actual damages or statutory damages of $2,500 (whichever is greater) plus attorney's fees and costs.
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Allows courts to award treble damages (three times actual or statutory damages) if the defendant acted with malice or oppression.
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Applies to reports made knowing they are false or made in bad faith or with malice.
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Takes effect immediately upon passage and approval as an emergency measure.
Legislative Description
Amends existing law to provide that reporting child abuse, abandonment, or neglect falsely, in bad faith, or with malice is a misdemeanor.
JUVENILES
Last Action
Reported Printed and Referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration
1/23/2023