Bill > SB1528

This bill requires the Arizona Department of Child Safety and Department of Education to create a statewide child sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention program for public schools by July 1, 2026. The program will include training modules for teachers focusing on preventing, identifying, and responding to child sexual abuse, as well as age-appropriate educational materials for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. These materials will help students recognize sexual abuse, boundary violations, and unwanted contact, and will teach strategies to promote disclosure, reduce self-blame, and encourage bystander intervention. The program will also establish a uniform response policy with guidance on obtaining assistance, accessing counseling, and reporting abuse. Importantly, the bill includes a parental opt-out provision, allowing parents or guardians to exempt their children from participating in the program by providing written notification to the school. The legislation is officially named "Erin's Law" and mandates that all public schools implement the program by October 1, 2026, with the goal of increasing awareness and prevention of child sexual abuse.

Education

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/82953