ND SB2161

Amends North Dakota Century Code section 14-07.1-18 to establish confidentiality protections for domestic violence and sexual assault program records, including shelter locations, client information, and staff identifying information.

Prohibits disclosure of protected information except when: a client consents, program staff determine disclosure is necessary for safe operations or protection of safety, a court orders disclosure after in camera review for child abuse/neglect or parental rights cases, or staff have reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect.

Designates shelter addresses, telephone numbers, and identifying information as exempt records under North Dakota public records law.

Makes violations of the confidentiality provisions guilty of an infraction.

Passed the Senate 46-0 and the House 91-0 during the 2017 legislative session.