ND SB2116

Permits persons or officials required to report child abuse or neglect to request color photographs, imaging studies, laboratory tests, colposcopies, and other medical tests of suspected abused or neglected children without parental or guardian consent.

Requires photographs and visual images to be taken by law enforcement officials, physicians, or medical facility professionals and submitted to the Department of Human Services or its designee at the time of initial report or as soon thereafter as possible.

Requires medical, dental, or mental health professionals, hospitals, facilities, and health care clinics to disclose patient or client records relevant to child abuse or neglect assessments upon request from the Department of Human Services or its authorized agent.

Mandates the Department of Human Services limit record requests to the minimum amount necessary to determine whether services are required for protection and treatment of an abused or neglected child.

Passed the Senate with 46 yeas, 0 nays, and 1 absent; passed the House with 66 yeas, 22 nays, and 6 absent.