This bill amends Section 40-11-6.1 of the General Laws in Chapter 40-11, which pertains to abused and neglected children. The amendment adds a new subsection (b) that imposes stricter penalties for coaches, teachers, school administrators, or persons in positions of authority who knowingly fail to report child abuse or neglect, sexual assault or battery involving a child, or fail to perform any other act required by law for the protection or safety of a child. These individuals would be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, subject to a fine of not less than $5,000 and not more than $10,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. The amendment also includes a new subsection (a) that clarifies the penalties for other individuals who fail to report or perform required acts related to child abuse or neglect. This amendment takes effect upon passage of the bill.

Statutes affected:
5358: 40-11-6.1