Bill > SB1631

This bill mandates that if a child alleges sexual abuse, or if a report of abuse or neglect alleges sexual abuse, a specially trained professional must conduct a forensic interview with the child either immediately or within 72 hours of receiving the report. This requirement applies to various forms of sexual abuse as defined by specific Arizona statutes, such as sexual abuse, sexual conduct with a minor, sexual assault, molestation of a child, commercial sexual exploitation of a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor, incest, and child sex trafficking. However, this 72-hour deadline can be waived if the Department of Child Safety (DCS) demonstrates good cause, which includes situations where the child is hospitalized, not physically present in the state, or if a parent or guardian is unresponsive or unable to make the child available for the interview. Importantly, failing to meet these interview timelines will not prevent evidence or statements from the child from being used in any legal proceedings.