This bill amends the Louisiana Children's Code to enhance the mandatory reporting requirements for child abuse or neglect, specifically concerning school resource officers. It redefines the term "mandatory reporter" to include police officers or law enforcement officials who serve as school resource officers, while removing the previous exclusion of school resource officers from this category. The bill establishes that if a school resource officer suspects child abuse or neglect, or if a mandatory reporter reports such suspicions to them, the officer must immediately notify their employing law enforcement agency or the Department of Children and Family Services. The investigation of the report will be assigned to the most appropriate law enforcement officer, which may include the school resource officer themselves.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision requiring the Department of Children and Family Services to determine if a suspected abuser is an active duty member of the United States Armed Forces or their spouse during investigations. If so, the department must notify the United States Department of Defense Family Advocacy Program. The bill also reinforces protections for mandatory reporters against employer retaliation, stipulating that employers found to discriminate against reporters will face increased penalties. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen the framework for reporting and investigating child abuse and neglect in school settings.