HF 1202 Summary

• Amends Minnesota Statutes 2020, section 260E.20, subdivision 2 regarding face-to-face contact requirements in child maltreatment investigations.

• Face-to-face contact with the child and primary caregiver must occur immediately if sexual abuse or substantial child endangerment is alleged, or within five calendar days for all other reports.

• Allows postponement of face-to-face contact with the child and primary caregiver for up to five calendar days if the child resides in a location confirmed to restrict contact with the alleged offender or if the local welfare agency is pursuing a court order for the child's production for questioning.

• Local welfare agency must inform the alleged offender of complaints or allegations at initial contact in a manner consistent with laws protecting the report maker's rights, with interviews postponable if they would jeopardize an active law enforcement investigation.

• Alleged offender must be provided an opportunity to make a statement and may submit supporting documentation relevant to the assessment or investigation.