The bill HB2651 introduces new requirements for the Department of Child Safety (DCS) in handling cases of missing, abducted, or runaway children. It mandates quicker action, requiring DCS to notify law enforcement, the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (for abducted children), the National Crime Information Center, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within 24 hours of receiving a report. The bill also calls for ongoing search efforts, including documentation and collaboration with NCMEC to create age-progression images for children missing for over two years. Additionally, it specifies procedures for when a child is found, such as conducting a medical exam and evaluating their placement.

The bill modifies existing law by streamlining reporting processes, emphasizing rapid communication with law enforcement, and removing some social media update obligations. It also introduces the possibility of legislative oversight through the formation of a committee and the requirement of an annual independent audit to ensure DCS's compliance with these enhanced procedures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-810
House Engrossed Version: 8-810
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-810
Chaptered Version: 8-810