The bill establishes the "Early Childhood Education and Care Department Investigation Team" within the Early Childhood Education and Care Department. This team will consist of a team coordinator, locally assigned investigation units, and other necessary personnel tasked with investigating reports of critical incidents and serious critical incidents involving children in programs or facilities funded by the department. The team coordinator is responsible for managing the intake of reports, assigning investigation units, and ensuring collaboration with local law enforcement. Investigations must commence within 24 hours of assignment and be completed within 60 days, with specific protocols for interviews, documentation, and access to relevant records.
Additionally, the bill outlines the duties of the investigation units, including the requirement to provide written findings and notifications to relevant parties upon completion of an investigation. It defines "critical incident" and "serious critical incident" and mandates that the department adopt rules to implement these provisions by September 30, 2026. The bill emphasizes the importance of cooperation from programs and facilities during investigations and includes measures to protect the well-being of children involved.