The bill amends existing legislation to enhance the responsibilities of the Child Advocacy Center-Multidisciplinary Team Advisory Board and introduces a new Problematic Sexual Behavior Program. It establishes an annual progress review process for child advocacy centers and multidisciplinary teams to ensure compliance with accreditation standards set by the National Children's Alliance, replacing the previous certification requirement. The board's membership is increased from 14 to 17 members, incorporating professionals with expertise in child welfare and problematic sexual behaviors. Additionally, a Problematic Sexual Behavior Subcommittee is mandated to oversee the state's response to these behaviors, and the bill clarifies the allocation of grants from the Child Advocacy Center-Multidisciplinary Team Fund.

The legislation defines "problematic sexual behavior" and outlines the roles of specialized care coordinators in supporting affected youth and families. It emphasizes a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to address child abuse and neglect, ensuring effective and child-friendly service delivery. The board is tasked with developing a comprehensive plan to evaluate the effectiveness of child advocacy centers and multidisciplinary teams, as well as administering the newly created Child Treatment Assistance Fund to support medical and mental health services for affected youth. Overall, the bill aims to provide a structured and sustainable system for addressing problematic sexual behaviors among youth, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and support.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:6-8.107, 9:6-8.108, 9:6-8.109, 9:6-8.110, 9:6-8.111, 9:6-8.113