NJ S3807

Requires the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to establish policies for detecting, investigating, and preventing child abuse during public health emergencies that necessitate social distancing or restrictions on person-to-person contact.

Authorizes child protective investigators and permanency workers to perform duties remotely via telephone, computer, or video communication when appropriate during public health emergencies.

Mandates DCF to collect and analyze data on child abuse reports made during the COVID-19 pandemic and submit a report to the Governor and Legislature within one year comparing pandemic-era reports to pre-pandemic data.

Requires the Department of Education and DCF to develop a free online training program for school employees on detecting and preventing child abuse, including during remote learning situations.

Requires school districts during public health emergencies to provide remote access to family helpline information and behavioral health assessments for students deemed at-risk of abuse or neglect by school counselors, psychologists, or social workers.