ID S1095

Requires the Department of Health and Welfare to inform local law enforcement agencies with jurisdiction in the area where a child abuse, abandonment, or neglect report was made directly to the department.

Requires law enforcement agencies to inform the Department of Health and Welfare of any reports of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect made directly to them.

Maintains existing exemption for duly ordained ministers of religion regarding confessions or confidential communications made in ecclesiastical capacity, provided the church is tax-exempt under 26 U.S.C. 501(c)(3) and strict confidentiality standards are met.

Clarifies that mandatory reporters remain physicians, residents, interns, nurses, coroners, school teachers, day care personnel, social workers, and other persons who must report suspected child abuse within 24 hours.

Effective date is July 1, 2023, with the bill declared an emergency measure.