Assembly Bill 252 aims to enhance the notification process regarding investigations of child abuse or neglect when a parent is a member of the U.S. armed forces or the Wisconsin National Guard. The bill mandates that if a county department or licensed child welfare agency initiates an investigation concerning a child or unborn child, and they are aware that a parent is affiliated with the military, they must notify the appropriate authorities of the U.S. Department of Defense within 24 hours. The notice will include only the name and address of the child or expectant mother and the fact that an investigation has been initiated.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law to include this new notification requirement as part of the confidentiality provisions governing reports of suspected child abuse or neglect. Specifically, it adds the new notification requirement to the list of confidential notices and reports, ensuring that all such communications remain protected under current confidentiality standards. This legislative change aims to ensure that military authorities are informed promptly about potential child welfare issues involving service members' families.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 48.981(7)(a)(intro.), 48.981