This bill introduces several requirements and amendments related to military occupational specialties and the reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect. Firstly, it mandates that boards and commissions adopt rules regarding criteria for military occupational specialties (MOS) by January 1, 2026. The bill specifies that military education, training, or service must be acceptable for each MOS related to the specific regulated occupation or profession.

Secondly, the bill addresses the reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect. It allows reports to the Department of Health and Human Services to include the name, address, or phone number of the person making the report. It also warns that if a report is made maliciously or with the intent to harm, the complainant may face criminal and civil penalties. Additionally, the bill provides immunity from liability for those who report suspected abuse or neglect in good faith. However, it removes immunity for professionals who are mandatory reporters if they knowingly fail to report suspected abuse or neglect, and for anyone who knowingly files a false report with malice or intent to harm. The bill also allows for civil action against individuals who intentionally submit false reports of abuse or neglect, and against mandatory reporters who fail to report suspected abuse or neglect.

The fiscal note indicates that the bill may have an indeterminable impact on state, county, and local expenditures, but does not affect revenues. The bill's sections regarding military occupational specialties will take effect 60 days after its passage, while the remainder will take effect on January 1, 2025. The Department of Health and Human Services has stated that the bill will have no fiscal impact on the department.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 332-G:7
As Amended by the Senate: 310:16
As Amended by the House: 332-G:7, 169-C:30