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MA H1591

MA H1591
Relative to child abuse reporting requirements


summary

Introduced
01/20/2015
In Committee
01/20/2015
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
07/31/2016

Introduced Session

189th General Court

Bill Summary

Relative to child abuse reporting requirements. The Judiciary.

AI Summary

This bill expands child abuse reporting requirements by obligating "mandated reporters"—individuals legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect, such as teachers or healthcare professionals—to report when someone previously accused of sexually abusing a child now poses a credible threat to a child under 18, even if the abuse is not current. It also clarifies that reports must be made for neglect that resulted in a sexual assault. Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for corporations or institutions that employ mandated reporters who fail to make required reports, with a potential fine of up to $100,000, unless the institution can prove it has implemented a program to ensure compliance. This program must include a written protocol for reporting, an educational component for reporters, and public posting of reporting requirements and penalties.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Accompanied a study order, see H4706 (on 10/24/2016)

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