Connecticut Senate Bill SB00728

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/11
• Refer: 1/24/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Notice By The Department Of Children And Families Upon The Opening Of An Investigation.

Impact

The implications of SB00728 extend to child welfare policies by requiring the DCF to broaden its communication responsibilities. This change could enhance parental involvement in investigations and foster collaborative efforts in safeguarding the welfare of children. By keeping noncustodial parents informed, the bill aims to balance the rights of both custodial and noncustodial parents, potentially leading to better outcomes for the child involved in the investigation.

Summary

SB00728 aims to amend Section 17a-103b of the Connecticut General Statutes to strengthen the communication of the Department of Children and Families (DCF) regarding investigations of child abuse. Specifically, the bill mandates that upon the opening of an investigation into a complaint of child abuse, the DCF must notify not only the custodial parent but also noncustodial parents and guardians. This legislation seeks to ensure that all relevant caregivers are informed of potential issues concerning the child, promoting transparency in child welfare proceedings.

Contention

While the bill appears to strengthen the rights and responsibilities of parents, it may also introduce contention regarding the logistics of implementing such notifications. Concerns could arise regarding the capacity of the DCF to efficiently manage communication with noncustodial parents, ensuring that notifications are timely and reach the correct individuals. Moreover, there may be debates about the appropriateness of including noncustodial parents in every investigation, especially in cases where there may be a history of conflict or abuse.