Bill > SB1079

This bill establishes confidentiality requirements for the records of family justice centers, which are government-funded entities that provide services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, dependent adult abuse, human trafficking, and stalking. The bill requires family justice centers to maintain client consent policies and comply with state and federal confidentiality laws. It also specifies that the case records, files, and notes of the centers and their employees or volunteers are confidential and cannot be disclosed without the client's informed consent, except in certain situations where disclosure is legally required, such as when a staff member is a mandated reporter. The bill also clarifies that client consent to share information within the center does not waive any existing evidentiary privilege, and that all staff members must comply with applicable laws governing their professions. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2019.