HB 1446 Summary

• Permits the Department of Child Services (DCS) to determine a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is not substantiated if the incident involves consensual sexual conduct between a person 18+ years old and a child 14-15 years old, the Romeo and Juliet defense applies, and the person is not charged with sexual misconduct with a minor.

• Allows an administrative hearing officer to consider Romeo and Juliet defense evidence when determining whether a substantiated report of child abuse or neglect should be expunged from the child protection index.

• Amends IC 31-33-26-9 to add consideration of IC 31-33-8-7.5 during administrative hearings if relevant evidence is presented.

• Effective July 1, 2011.