Bill > HB1152

This bill introduces comprehensive changes to how the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) handles and discloses information about child fatalities and near fatalities. The legislation defines "near fatality" as a severe childhood injury or condition certified by a physician as life-threatening and establishes a new framework for public transparency. Under the new law, the department is required to promptly provide preliminary public information about child abuse or neglect cases resulting in fatalities or near fatalities, including details such as the child's age and gender, location, and actions taken by the department. The bill mandates that within 90 days of completing a report, DCS must publish a summary report that includes actions taken, policy changes, and detailed information about the case, while taking precautions to protect the identities of reporters and potential victims. The legislation also specifies that the department must consult with prosecuting attorneys before releasing additional information to ensure no harm comes to ongoing criminal investigations. These changes aim to increase public awareness and accountability in child welfare cases while balancing the need for transparency with protecting individual privacy.