Bill > SB402

This bill updates the definitions in Montana's child welfare laws to establish a more structured approach to investigating and categorizing reports of child abuse or neglect. Specifically, the bill introduces a new concept of "case determination," which requires the Department of Public Health and Human Services to make a formal determination about each reported incident of child abuse or neglect after completing an investigation. These case determinations will be classified into three specific categories: "substantiated" (meaning there is a preponderance of evidence that abuse or neglect occurred), "unsubstantiated" (meaning the department cannot definitively determine whether abuse or neglect occurred), and "unfounded" (meaning there is no evidence to support the initial report). The bill aims to provide more clarity and consistency in how child abuse and neglect investigations are conducted and documented, ensuring that each reported incident receives a clear and standardized assessment. These changes will help child protection specialists better document and track potential child abuse cases, potentially improving the state's ability to protect vulnerable children by creating a more rigorous and transparent investigative process.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC0481