HB 5912 Summary

• Expands mandatory child abuse and neglect reporting requirements to include athletic coaches and other coaches at schools or institutions of higher education who have reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect.

• Expands mandatory reporting requirements to include volunteers at schools or institutions of higher education who have reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect.

• Requires all mandatory reporters to make an immediate oral report by telephone or otherwise, followed by a written report filed within 72 hours to the county department where the child is found.

• Maintains existing reporting requirements for healthcare providers, educators, social workers, clergy, child care providers, and other professionals to report suspected child abuse or neglect using the same procedures.

• Clarifies that department responsibilities to investigate child abuse and neglect reports are not relieved by referrals to law enforcement or child care regulatory agencies.