Bill > HB1234

This bill, concerning access to records of child abuse or neglect, aims to clarify and expand who can access these sensitive documents while maintaining confidentiality for the public. It specifies that identifying information within reports or records of child abuse or neglect must not be shared with the public, defining "identifying information" broadly to include names, addresses, and any details that could reveal the identity of a child, family, or informant. The bill allows for access by individuals named in the report or record, their designated representatives with a valid release of information, or a parent/guardian for a child named in the report. It also introduces the concept of an "authorized person" who can access records, defining them as an alleged abused or neglected child who is 18 or older, an emancipated minor, or the parent/legal guardian of a child under 18. Furthermore, individuals named as alleged victims can disclose and use these records, including for litigation or to obtain treatment, and county departments must establish processes for clients to access their case records. For criminal cases, access by a defendant requires a court's in-camera review to determine necessity, and the court can issue protection orders. The bill also revises penalties for unauthorized release of information related to child abuse or neglect records, changing them to a petty offense in certain contexts, and repeals provisions related to access after a child turns eighteen and previous misdemeanor penalties for improper release.

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https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1234