The proposed bill would update current statutes by expanding the list of individuals required to report suspected abuse of minors to include substitute teachers and members of school district governing boards or charter school governing bodies. This change broadens the scope of accountability beyond just school personnel. Additionally, it clarifies that a reports are a report is received by a peace officer, who must notify the Department of Child Safety, and mandates that school resource officers and safety officers must notify law enforcement and provide all relevant information for investigations. Moreover, the bill specifies that a report to a school resource officer or a school safety officer does not satisfy the reporting requirement and establishes protocols for interviewing potential victims, which must adhere to local county protocols. It also introduces definitions for "school safety officer" and "student," while emphasizing that any investigation related to reportable offenses must involve local law enforcement. These updates aim to enhance the reporting process and ensure that allegations of misconduct are addressed effectively and in a timely manner.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3620, 15-514, 36-2281, 13-1404, 13-1405, 13-3401, 8-201, 13-3623, 13-3506, 13-3019, 13-3212, 13-3608, 13-1214
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-3620, 15-514, 36-2281, 13-1404, 13-1405, 13-3401, 8-201, 13-3623, 13-3506, 13-3019, 13-3212, 13-3608, 13-1214
House Engrossed Version: 13-3620, 15-514, 36-2281, 13-1404, 13-1405, 13-3401, 8-817, 8-201, 13-3623, 13-3506, 13-3019, 13-3212, 13-3608, 13-1214
Chaptered Version: 13-3620, 15-514, 36-2281, 13-1404, 13-1405, 13-3401, 8-817, 8-201, 13-3623, 13-3506, 13-3019, 13-3212, 13-3608, 13-1214