Assembly Bill 252 amends current law regarding the notification process for investigations of child abuse or neglect when a parent is a member of the U.S. armed forces or related reserve components. The bill mandates that if a county department or licensed child welfare agency initiates an investigation concerning a child or unborn child and is aware that a parent is in the military, they must notify the appropriate authorities of the U.S. Department of Defense within 24 hours. The notice will only include the name and address of the child or expectant mother and the fact that an investigation has been initiated, ensuring that confidentiality is maintained in accordance with existing laws.

Additionally, the bill modifies the confidentiality provisions related to reports and records of child abuse or neglect. Specifically, it adds the new notification requirement to the list of confidential notices that must be protected under current law. This amendment reinforces the importance of maintaining privacy while ensuring that relevant military authorities are informed when necessary, thereby enhancing the protection of children and unborn children in military families.

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