Bill > HB1142

This bill, titled the "Colorado Child Advocacy Center Act," aims to strengthen the framework for child advocacy centers (CACs) in Colorado by providing a clear definition and establishing standards for their operation, recognizing their crucial role in providing a coordinated, trauma-informed response to child maltreatment. It defines a CAC as an independent entity, accredited by a national association, that collaborates with law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical and mental health professionals, and victim advocates to ensure a safe and effective investigative response for children suspected of abuse and their caregivers, while also offering necessary services. The bill also introduces provisions for information sharing among CAC multidisciplinary teams, which are defined as groups of professionals including district attorneys, child protective services members, mental health and healthcare providers, victim advocates, and CAC staff, ensuring this information remains confidential and is used solely for the child's protection. Furthermore, it grants civil immunity to members of these multidisciplinary teams and CAC staff for good-faith actions taken during investigations or information sharing, protecting them from liability unless their actions involve gross negligence, wanton misconduct, or intentional wrongdoing. Finally, the bill amends existing statutes to include CAC representatives on the Human Trafficking Council and allows for their participation in individualized service and support teams for children.

Health and Social Services

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1142