This bill amends Title 23 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance child protective services through the establishment of a Statewide database. Key provisions include the requirement for the database to reflect the designated child protection tier level of indicated and founded reports of child abuse. The bill introduces limitations on the information disclosed in response to inquiries about individuals who have contact with children, adoptive and foster parents, and licensed child-care home residents, specifically excluding unfounded reports and restricting details to founded or indicated reports. Additionally, it categorizes reports of child abuse into three tiers based on employment or volunteer position, mandates that individuals requesting certifications specify their purpose, and allows for challenges to clearance levels within a designated timeframe.

Furthermore, the bill sets forth regulations regarding the employment and approval processes for individuals working with children, stating that those listed as perpetrators of founded reports within the past five years cannot be hired or approved. However, it clarifies that an indicated report will not automatically disqualify individuals from employment or participation in programs, except in certain child-care roles. For prospective adoptive and foster parents, the bill mandates that they and adult residents submit their child abuse history for review, with the stipulation that those found to be perpetrators of founded reports within the last five years will not be approved. The bill also emphasizes the need for timely communication of investigation findings and the importance of understanding clearance levels and child protection tiers in relation to future employment opportunities involving children.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 649 (Apr 14, 2025): 23-6331(3)