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Bill

A 8343

Enacts "Erin's law", establishing the offense of aggravated murder, abuse, and manslaughter of a child; requires the recording of calls to the statewide register of child abuse; repealer

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Marianne Buttenschon

Erin's Law enhances child protection by defining severe offenses, increasing penalties for abuse, and requiring recorded calls to improve reporting and accountability.

REFERRED TO CODES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 8343

Summary of Bill A 8343: "Erin's Law"

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 8343, titled "Erin's Law," aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding the protection of children from severe forms of violence and abuse. The bill seeks to establish specific offenses related to aggravated murder, abuse, and manslaughter of a child, thereby reinforcing the legal consequences for such heinous acts. Additionally, it mandates the recording of calls to the statewide register of child abuse, which is intended to improve the tracking and reporting of child abuse cases.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant provisions:

  1. Establishment of Offenses:

    • Aggravated Murder of a Child: Defines and penalizes the act of intentionally causing the death of a child under specific circumstances that elevate the severity of the crime.
    • Child Abuse: Introduces stricter definitions and penalties for various forms of child abuse, ensuring that perpetrators face appropriate legal consequences.
    • Manslaughter of a Child: Establishes penalties for individuals who unintentionally cause the death of a child through reckless or negligent behavior.

  2. Recording of Calls:

    • The bill requires that all calls made to the statewide register of child abuse be recorded. This provision is designed to create a more reliable and accountable system for reporting and responding to child abuse allegations.

  3. Repealer Clause:

    • The bill includes a repealer clause that may eliminate outdated or conflicting statutes related to child abuse and murder, streamlining the legal framework for better enforcement.

Affected Parties

The enactment of Erin's Law would primarily affect:

  • Children: The primary beneficiaries of the bill, as it aims to provide them with greater protection from violence and abuse.
  • Law Enforcement and Child Protective Services: These agencies will be tasked with enforcing the new provisions and utilizing the recorded calls for better investigation and response to abuse cases.
  • Perpetrators of Child Abuse: Individuals found guilty of the newly defined offenses will face enhanced penalties, which may include longer prison sentences.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on May 13, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of the latest update, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.

Conclusion

Bill A 8343, or "Erin's Law," represents a significant step toward strengthening the legal protections for children against severe forms of violence and abuse. By establishing clear offenses and improving reporting mechanisms, the bill aims to create a safer environment for vulnerable populations. As it progresses through the legislative process, its implications for child welfare and legal accountability will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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