Bill > SB1534

This bill, aimed at improving the welfare of young people, significantly revises laws concerning children in care and the regulation of child-caring agencies, with an emergency clause making it effective immediately upon passage. Key provisions include a more detailed definition of child abuse, expanding it to encompass neglect, abandonment, assault, restraint violations, and various forms of verbal, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as sexual exploitation. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of child-caring agencies, developmental disabilities residential facilities, proctor foster homes, certified foster homes, and individuals with a duty of care towards children in care, emphasizing their duty to protect these children from abuse. It introduces new regulations for licensing and oversight of these agencies, including stricter requirements for reporting abuse, conducting investigations, and taking immediate action in cases of substantiated abuse or neglect, with provisions for suspending or revoking licenses if agencies fail to comply or pose a risk to children. Furthermore, the bill modifies rules regarding out-of-state placements of children, clarifies definitions related to child care providers, and updates various statutes to align with these changes, all intended to enhance the safety and well-being of children in care.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2026R1/Measures/Overview/SB1534