Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] seeks to enhance the reporting and response mechanisms for child abuse and neglect in Montana by revising the definition and certification requirements for "public safety communications officer." The bill mandates that reports of child abuse and neglect be made directly to these officers, streamlining the reporting process. It also introduces specific training requirements for these officers, ensuring they are equipped to handle such reports effectively. Additionally, the bill modifies the reporting process for professionals who suspect child abuse, allowing them to report through a 9-1-1 system rather than solely to the department, thereby improving the timeliness and efficiency of responses.

The bill amends several sections of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) and includes significant changes such as the deletion of a reference to a specific section regarding referrals to county attorneys, which is replaced with a new section that updates reporting requirements for the Department of Public Health and Human Services. It establishes guidelines for safety and risk assessments, documentation, and confidentiality of records related to child abuse investigations. Furthermore, it outlines the conditions under which members of Congress or the Montana legislature can access investigation records, ensuring that confidentiality is maintained while allowing for necessary oversight. Overall, the bill aims to improve the safety and welfare of children in Montana through enhanced training, streamlined reporting protocols, and increased transparency in the handling of child abuse cases.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 5-11-222, 7-31-201, 7-31-203, 41-3-201, 41-3-202, 41-3-205, 41-3-208, 41-3-211, 41-3-212
SB0463_1(1): 5-11-222, 7-31-201, 7-31-203, 41-3-201, 41-3-202, 41-3-205, 41-3-208, 41-3-211, 41-3-212
SB0463_1(2): 5-11-222, 7-31-201, 7-31-203, 41-3-201, 41-3-202, 41-3-205, 41-3-208, 41-3-211, 41-3-212
SB0463_1: 5-11-222, 7-31-201, 7-31-203, 41-3-201, 41-3-202, 41-3-205, 41-3-208, 41-3-211, 41-3-212