This bill proposes several updates to current statutes regarding the duty to report child abuse and neglect. It modifies the existing language concerning health professionals' responsibilities when they determine that a newborn has been prenatally exposed to drugs, clarifying that their duty to report is based on specific criteria and does not expand beyond current requirements. Additionally, it introduces new provisions that require members of the clergy, Christian Science practitioners, and priests to report any knowledge or reasonable suspicion of ongoing child abuse or neglect, while maintaining confidentiality for past confessions unless there is a risk of future harm.

Furthermore, the bill removes outdated language and clarifies the reporting obligations for various individuals, including clergy, in cases of child abuse or neglect. It establishes that any person who suspects abuse must report it, and it specifies that the privilege of confidentiality does not apply if there is reasonable suspicion of ongoing or future abuse. The bill also updates the penalties for failing to report, distinguishing between misdemeanors and felonies based on the nature of the offense. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the protection of minors by ensuring timely reporting of suspected abuse or neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-201, 12-2233, 13-3620, 13-1404, 13-1405, 13-1406, 13-1410, 13-3552, 13-3553, 13-3608, 13-3212, 13-3401, 8-327, 13-501, 13-3903, 13-4261, 13-3623, 13-3601, 13-1417, 8-455, 13-706, 32-3201, 15-803, 13-3551, 13-1401, 13-1411, 13-3507, 8-521.02, 8-456, 8-471