Bill > SB259

This bill, known as "Ridge's Law," amends Georgia's Juvenile Code to establish new procedures when a physician takes a child into temporary protective custody due to suspected abuse or neglect. The bill requires physicians holding a child to make reasonable efforts to inform parents about the child's whereabouts and their right to obtain an independent medical evaluation or pediatric specialty consultation. It defines "pediatric specialty consultation" as a consultation with a board-certified pediatric specialist who can diagnose complex medical conditions that might be mistaken for abuse. Parents or legal guardians are granted the right to obtain an independent medical evaluation at their own expense, unless prohibited by a court order. Medical professionals, law enforcement, and the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) must cooperate to facilitate these evaluations. During dependency proceedings, courts are now required to consider the results of any independent medical evaluations or pediatric specialty consultations. Additionally, the bill requires physicians to provide DFCS with detailed information about the basis of their determinations, including whether a physical examination was conducted and what medical records were reviewed. The law will become effective upon the Governor's approval and will apply to legal actions filed on or after that date.

Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70797