MO HB505

Repeals and reenacts nine sections of Missouri law (37.710, 160.261, 160.262, 162.068, 162.069, 210.115, 556.061, 568.060, and 595.220) relating to child abuse and neglect.

Expands the Office of Child Advocate's authority to mediate disputes between school districts and charter schools when allegations of child abuse arise in school settings.

Requires mandatory reporters of child abuse to report immediately to the children's division without conducting internal investigations first, and prohibits supervisors from impeding reports or taking adverse employment action against reporters.

Establishes mandatory reporting training for school employees by January 1, 2014, including identification of sexual abuse signs, proper reporting procedures, and protections against retaliation.

Adds new child abuse penalties including class A felony with 15-year minimum sentence if victim is under 14 and injury results from sexual abuse, and requires payment for forensic examinations of sexual assault victims regardless of whether abuse is substantiated.