The bill HB2651 aims to improve the protocols of the Department of Child Safety (DCS) regarding cases of missing, abducted, or runaway children. It establishes specific timelines for DCS to notify law enforcement and relevant agencies, such as the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission and the National Crime Information Center, within 24 hours of a report. DCS is also required to maintain ongoing communication with the child's parents, relatives, and caregivers, and to document all efforts made to locate the child. The bill emphasizes collaboration with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for age-progression images and mandates local law enforcement to disseminate information about missing children to media and social media within 48 hours.

In contrast to current law, the bill introduces new responsibilities for DCS, including the implementation of screening procedures for potential sex trafficking victims and the removal of the requirement to report monthly to legislative leaders. Instead, DCS must submit compliance reports to a newly established Oversight Committee, which can convene to address concerns and conduct independent audits to ensure adherence to the new protocols. These changes are designed to enhance accountability and oversight of DCS while streamlining reporting requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-810
House Engrossed Version: 8-810
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-810
Chaptered Version: 8-810