Bill > SB0626

This bill modifies the "Child Protection Law" by updating definitions and procedures related to child abuse and neglect investigations and the central registry, which is a database of individuals identified as perpetrators in confirmed child abuse or neglect cases. Key changes include clarifying that a "child" is an individual under 18 years old, expanding the definition of "confirmed serious abuse or neglect" to include manslaughter or the death of a child, and specifying that "confirmed sexual abuse" now encompasses other forms of sexual abuse beyond penetration or contact. The bill also mandates that the department of health and human services shall maintain a statewide electronic case management system and shall classify certain confirmed cases, including those involving methamphetamine production, serious abuse or neglect, sexual abuse, or sexual exploitation, as central registry cases. It also outlines procedures for individuals to request removal from the central registry and for the department to notify individuals placed on it. Furthermore, the bill clarifies when law enforcement must be involved in investigations and strengthens cooperation between the department and law enforcement, including the adoption of standardized interview protocols. Finally, it details how reports are entered into the electronic case management system, when they are maintained, and the conditions under which they can be expunged, while also ensuring that certain information remains confidential.