summary
Introduced
01/06/2026
01/06/2026
In Committee
01/06/2026
01/06/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Physical examinations in CHINS investigations. Provides that if the department of child services (department) receives a report of known or suspected abuse of a child who is less than five years of age, a department caseworker: (1) shall physically examine the child's head, face, arms, legs, chest, and back for bruises or contusions; and (2) if the caseworker finds evidence of abuse, shall: (A) immediately take the child into custody; (B) cause color photographs to be taken of the areas of trauma visible on the child, unless a law enforcement agency is obligated to do so; (C) cause a medical examination of the child to be performed; and (D) if medically indicated, cause a radiological examination of the child to be performed. Provides that if the department receives a report of known or suspected abuse of a child who is not less than five years of age, the department may have a: (1) health screening; or (2) medical examination; of the child conducted. Provides that the department is responsible for the cost of the health screening or medical examination.
AI Summary
This bill modifies how the Department of Child Services (DCS) handles reports of child abuse, particularly focusing on the age of the child. For children under five years old who are the subject of an abuse report, a DCS caseworker is now required to physically examine the child's head, face, arms, legs, chest, and back for bruises or contusions. If evidence of abuse is found in these younger children, the caseworker must immediately take the child into custody, arrange for color photographs of any visible trauma (unless law enforcement does so), and ensure the child receives a medical examination, including a radiological exam if medically necessary. For children five years of age or older, the DCS may arrange for a health screening or medical examination, and the department will cover the costs of these examinations, as well as photographs and radiological exams if medically indicated. The bill also clarifies that if a law enforcement agency is involved in the assessment, they are responsible for taking the photographs.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (4)
Last Action
Representative Patterson added as coauthor (on 01/22/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2026/bills/house/1318/details |
| BillText | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/house/bills/HB1318/HB1318.01.INTR.pdf |
| Fiscal Note #1: Introduced | https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2026/house/bills/HB1318/fiscal-notes/HB1318.01.INTR.FN001.pdf |
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