The bill establishes the Child Safety Fatality and Near Fatality Review Team (DCS Review Team) within the Department of Child Safety (DCS) to review reports of child fatalities and near fatalities made to the child abuse hotline. This team will conduct regular multidisciplinary meetings to analyze cases, identify systemic trends, and recommend policy changes to improve outcomes for children and families. An annual report detailing fatalities, allegations, and systemic trends will be produced, enhancing accountability and transparency in the child welfare system.

Unlike current law, which centers on the State Child Fatality Review Team within the Department of Health Services, this bill shifts the focus to the DCS and emphasizes cases with prior DCS involvement. The DCS Review Team will include professionals such as pediatricians and social workers, ensuring a comprehensive review process. The bill also introduces confidentiality measures for the information reviewed and allows for executive sessions, marking a significant change from the existing oversight structure. Overall, the bill aims to foster a culture of psychological safety and continuous improvement within the department.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 8-807, 12-2294, 36-3501, 41-3024.14, 13-3601, 13-1423, 11-593, 8-804, 41-3801, 41-812, 8-807.01, 39-121.02, 36-2201, 32-3201, 36-441, 36-445, 36-2402, 36-2917, 36-3506, 8-201, 41-1292, 41-813, 41-814, 41-815
Senate Engrossed Version: 8-469, 41-1292, 8-807, 8-807.01
Chaptered Version: 8-469, 41-1292, 8-807, 8-807.01