Bill > S314

This bill, known as the SHIELD Act, aims to prevent the sexual abuse and exploitation of minors in schools and youth-serving organizations. It requires these institutions to adopt abuse prevention policies that outline a code of conduct for employees and procedures for reporting abuse. The bill also mandates biennial training for school and youth organization staff on identifying, responding to, and preventing child sexual abuse. Additionally, it requires schools and youth organizations to provide age-appropriate instruction to help students and children recognize inappropriate adult and peer behavior, establish healthy relationships, and understand the importance of reporting concerns to trusted adults. The departments of Elementary and Secondary Education and Children and Families are responsible for creating and maintaining the model abuse prevention policies and training programs.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S314