Bill
LC 476
Overview: Bill Number: LC 476, Title: Generally revise laws related to child abuse and neglect proceedings and investigations, Status: (LC) Draft Delivered to Requester, Introduced
Overview: Bill Number: LC 476, Title: Generally revise laws related to child abuse and neglect proceedings and investigations, Status: (LC) Draft Delivered to Requester, Introduced: October 04, 2024
Purpose and Intent: The primary goal of this bill is to update and strengthen the state's laws regarding child abuse and neglect proceedings and investigations. The intent is to improve the protection and well-being of children by enhancing the processes and procedures used by child welfare agencies and the courts.
Key Provisions:
- Expands the definition of "child abuse and neglect" to include additional forms of maltreatment
- Requires child welfare agencies to conduct more comprehensive investigations, including interviews with all household members and collateral contacts
- Mandates the use of multidisciplinary teams to review and coordinate child abuse and neglect cases
- Establishes stricter timelines for court proceedings and decision-making in abuse and neglect cases
- Increases training requirements for child welfare workers and court personnel
Affected Parties and Impacts:
- Children and families involved in child abuse and neglect proceedings will be impacted by the enhanced investigative and judicial processes
- Child welfare agencies and the courts will need to adapt their practices and procedures to comply with the new requirements
- Professionals working in the child welfare and judicial systems will require additional training and resources
Procedural and Timeline Considerations:
- This bill is currently in the draft stage and has been delivered to the requester
- If enacted, the new laws and requirements would take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing time for implementation and training
- The bill would need to pass through the normal legislative process before becoming law
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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