The bill, HB 243-FN, proposes significant amendments to laws concerning the reporting of suspected child abuse and neglect, as well as the structure and function of the maternal mortality review panel, which is renamed the maternal mortality review committee. Key changes include allowing reports of suspected abuse to include the name and contact information of the reporter, establishing penalties for knowingly making false reports, and creating a private right of action for civil damages against those who submit false reports. The bill also revises immunity provisions for mandatory reporters, ensuring they are not immune if they fail to report or knowingly file false reports. Additionally, the bill updates the definition of "pregnancy-related death" to encompass deaths from any cause related to or aggravated by pregnancy, thereby enhancing accountability in abuse reporting and maternal health oversight.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the composition and responsibilities of the maternal mortality review committee by adding representatives from the Division for Children, Youth and Families and the Department of Corrections, while removing term limits for committee members. It emphasizes the confidentiality of the committee's proceedings and mandates comprehensive reviews of maternal mortality cases. The bill also introduces provisions related to electric vehicle charging stations, including a licensing fee and the establishment of a new position for registered electric vehicle service technicians. The effective date for certain sections is set for July 1, 2025, while others take effect upon passage. Overall, these amendments aim to improve the effectiveness of maternal health oversight and ensure accurate reporting of child abuse and neglect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 169-C:30
As Amended by the Senate: 169-C:30, 132:29, 132:30, 132:31, 438:1, 438:10-a, 438:14-a