SB1022 - 452R - House Bill Summary

House of Representatives

SB 1022

CPS; investigations; notification

Sponsor: Senator Hartley

X	Committee on Human Services
	Caucus and COW
	Third Read
	As Passed the House

SB 1022 requires the Department of Economic Security (DES) to provide a parent with a summary investigation outcome if the parent reported the alleged child abuse. It also requires DES to provide a parent who is subject to investigation with the outcome of the investigation.

History

DES may not disclose information related to Child Protective Service (CPS) investigations to individuals not stated in statute. Current law allows the alleged victim, their family and the person who is the subject of the investigation to a right of privacy. Only particular individuals are allowed access to confidential records. There is however a stipulation in statute that allows DES to summarize the outcome of the investigation to the reporter of the alleged abuse. SB 1022 requires DES to summarize the outcome of the investigation for the person who reported the suspected abuse if the reporter is the child’s parent, guardian or custodian.

CPS is required to notify a person who is alleged to have abused a child that the department intends to substantiate the allegations. The alleged abuser has the right to receive a copy of the report containing the allegations. Currently there are no provisions to require CPS to provide the alleged abuser with the investigation outcome. SB 1022 requires DES to provide a parent under investigation with the investigation outcome.

Provisions

· Requires DES to provide a parent, guardian or custodian with a summary of the outcome of an investigation if the parent, guardian or custodian reported the suspected abuse or neglect.

· Specifies DES shall provide a parent, guardian or custodian who is the subject of an investigation with the outcome of the investigation when the report is unsubstantiated, after the time to request a hearing has lapsed without receiving a request or after a final administrative decision has been made.

· Makes technical and conforming changes.

· Provides an effective date of September 30, 2002.

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· 45th Legislature