This bill amends current law to allow the Division of Child Protection and Permanency in the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to disclose information regarding child abuse or neglect allegations to religious institutions concerning prospective or current employees who provide instruction or services to children. The new legal language specifically adds this provision as item (24) under the list of entities to which DCF may release such information, thereby expanding the scope of disclosure beyond the previously established entities.

The bill addresses a gap identified in a recent Appellate Division of the Superior Court opinion, which noted that religious institutions were not included among the entities authorized to receive this sensitive information. By including religious organizations, the bill aims to enhance the safety and welfare of children by ensuring that those who work with them in religious settings are appropriately vetted for any history of abuse or neglect. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 9:6-8.10