This bill proposes to amend current statutes by expanding the list of individuals classified as mandatory reporters in cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. Specifically, it adds judicial officers presiding over family court matters, their staff, court clerks, court reporters, and sheriff's deputies to the existing list of mandatory reporters. This change aims to ensure that more individuals present in family court settings are legally obligated to report any reasonable suspicions of child abuse or neglect, thereby enhancing the protection of minors.

Additionally, the bill makes technical and conforming changes to the existing statute, including the renumbering of certain paragraphs. It deletes the previous paragraph 6 and renumbers the subsequent paragraphs accordingly. The bill also clarifies that the Department of Child Safety must immediately notify a peace officer in the appropriate jurisdiction when a report is made, ensuring a prompt response to potential cases of abuse or neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-3620
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-3620