Bill > SB1437

This bill amends Arizona's mandatory reporting laws for school employees and officials, expanding the requirements for reporting suspected abuse or misconduct involving minors. The bill adds substitute teachers and school board members to the list of mandatory reporters who must immediately report suspicions of child abuse, physical injury, or reportable offenses to local law enforcement and the state board of education. It clarifies that reporting to a school resource officer or school safety officer does not satisfy the reporting requirement, and mandates that any such reports must be submitted to local law enforcement with all relevant information. The bill also establishes specific protocols for interviewing potential victims of reportable offenses, ensuring that such interviews are conducted only according to local county protocols. Additionally, the legislation provides protections for employees who make good faith reports, prohibiting unlawful reprisals such as disciplinary actions, transfers, or unfavorable evaluations. Failure to report suspected misconduct can result in disciplinary action, and school administrators are prevented from accepting a resignation until suspicions have been reported to the state board of education. The bill aims to strengthen child protection measures by creating more comprehensive and stringent reporting requirements for school personnel.

Education, Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82855