Bill > SF4198

This bill modifies the requirements for mandatory reporters of child maltreatment in Minnesota, specifically concerning the timeframe for reporting and the penalties for failing to do so. It clarifies that mandatory reporters, such as professionals in fields like education, healthcare, and law enforcement, must report suspected child maltreatment immediately, removing the previous three-year limit for reporting past maltreatment. The bill also expands the definition of clergy members who are mandatory reporters to include any minister of any religion, regardless of compensation, while still respecting privileged communications. Furthermore, it strengthens the criminal penalties for failing to report, making a first-time failure to report a gross misdemeanor, and escalating it to a felony with potential imprisonment and fines for failing to report multiple instances of maltreatment by the same offender. The bill also makes it a gross misdemeanor to intentionally prevent a mandatory reporter from making a report.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/SF/4198/