This bill mandates that a child abuse investigation be conducted for newborns whose biological parent has had their parental rights terminated due to child abuse. It amends existing laws to clarify the responsibilities of mandatory reporters—individuals in specific professions who are required to report suspected child abuse. The bill specifies that if a mandatory reporter learns that a person who previously had their parental rights terminated due to child abuse is the biological parent of a newborn, they must report this information. Additionally, it allows permissive reporters, who are not mandated by law but have knowledge of potential abuse, to also make reports under the same circumstances.

The bill includes several amendments to existing legal language, such as redefining the categories of mandatory reporters and clarifying the reporting process. It specifies that reports must be made within twenty-four hours of the mandatory reporter's professional engagement with the child if they have reasonable belief of abuse. The bill also updates the definitions and procedures related to child abuse reporting, ensuring that the necessary investigations are initiated promptly when there is a risk of harm to newborns in these situations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 232.69, 232.71B