summary
Introduced
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
In Committee
02/18/2026
02/18/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
The bill prohibits a person who possesses records or reports (records) of child abuse or neglect from releasing identifying data or information contained in the records to a person who is not authorized to receive the information or data. The bill includes an attorney representing a person named in the record and an assigned designee of the child named in a record as authorized persons who may have access to child abuse or neglect records if the attorney or assigned designee presents a valid release of information signed by an authorized person. The bill allows a person named in a record as an alleged abused or neglected child who is in possession of a record in which they are named or, with the person's consent, the person's attorney or guardian ad litem, to disclose and make use of the record, including for the purpose of litigation or to obtain treatment or services. The bill requires each county department of human or social services (county department) to establish and submit to the state department of human services a process for current and former clients to obtain access to their case records. The bill repeals the penalties associated with a person who improperly releases or willfully permits or encourages the release of data or information contained in the records to a person not permitted to access the information.
AI Summary
This bill modifies existing laws to enhance access to child abuse or neglect records while maintaining confidentiality for unauthorized individuals. It clarifies that a person possessing these records cannot release identifying information to anyone not permitted by law, with exceptions for attorneys representing individuals named in the record and designees of the child, provided they present a valid release signed by an authorized person. An "authorized person" is defined as an individual named in the record who is now an adult or an emancipated minor, or the parent or legal guardian of a child named in the record. The bill also allows individuals named in a record as an alleged abused or neglected child, or their attorney or guardian ad litem with consent, to use and disclose the record for purposes like litigation or obtaining treatment. Furthermore, it requires county departments of human or social services to establish processes for current and former clients to access their case records. Importantly, the bill repeals penalties for improperly releasing child abuse or neglect information, and instead, it imposes misdemeanor penalties, including potential jail time or fines, for unauthorized disclosure of such information in certain contexts related to school employment background checks.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Introduced In House - Assigned to Judiciary (on 02/18/2026)
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://leg.colorado.gov/bills/HB26-1234 |
| BillText | https://leg.colorado.gov/bill_files/112164/download |
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