The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) by requiring that any interview conducted with a child be recorded via audiotape or videotape, unless specific exceptions apply, such as equipment malfunction or unforeseen circumstances preventing the availability of recording equipment. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals charged with child abuse or neglect do not have the standing to contest DCS's failure to comply with these recording requirements, and such failures do not invalidate statements made by children during interviews that are otherwise admissible in legal proceedings.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a conditional enactment clause stating that it will only take effect if federal legislation is enacted by December 31, 2036, to provide grants for states mandating the recording of DCS interviews. The DCS Director is also required to inform the Arizona Legislative Council by the same date regarding whether the condition for the bill's enactment has been met. Other conforming changes are made to ensure consistency within the statute.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-456