Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB07001

Introduced
1/31/19  
Refer
1/31/19  
Refer
1/31/19  
Report Pass
3/7/19  
Refer
3/18/19  
Report Pass
3/25/19  
Report Pass
3/25/19  
Engrossed
5/20/19  
Engrossed
5/20/19  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Notification Of Certain Employers Of The Placement Of An Employee On The Child Abuse Or Neglect Registry.

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to state procedures related to the child abuse tracking and reporting system. By ensuring swift notifications to employers, it attempts to mitigate the risk of further exposure to potentially harmful individuals. These changes also require that any investigation into allegations of child abuse or neglect be completed within 45 days to maintain timely oversight and action concerning the welfare of affected children. The expectation is that this swift action will lead to better outcomes for children in vulnerable positions.

Summary

House Bill 07001 aims to enhance the procedure for notifying employers when an employee is placed on the child abuse or neglect registry. This legislation mandates that once a report involving a school employee or any individual caring for children is confirmed as abuse or neglect, the relevant departments must notify the employing body immediately. This development intends to safeguard children by promoting accountability in child care and educational environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 07001 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among child advocacy groups and legislators concerned with child safety. Proponents argue that swift notification of suspected abusers will enhance community protection and accountability among caregivers. On the other hand, concerns have been raised about the potential stigmatization of individuals placed on the registry before all investigations are complete. Opponents suggest that while protecting children is paramount, due process must also be respected for those accused.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between swift action and the rights of those accused of abuse or neglect. Critics worry that immediate employer notification could lead to unwarranted job loss or reputational damage without thorough investigation. Additionally, some lawmakers argue that the bill might place undue burden on the already strained resources of child protection agencies as they strive to comply with expedited processes. The ongoing debate touches on critical issues of child safety, legal rights, and the responsibilities of state agencies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05382

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Office Of The Child Advocate.

CT SB00381

An Act Concerning Revisions To The Mandated Reporter Requirements.

CT HB05262

An Act Concerning Child Sexual Abuse.

CT HB05436

An Act Concerning Educator Certification, Teachers, Paraeducators And Mandated Reporter Requirements.

CT SB00127

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Department Of Children And Families Relating To Background Checks, Certain Subsidies, Urgent Crisis Centers, Departmental Records And Special Police Officers.

CT SB00125

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Department Of Children And Families Relative To Identified Adoptions And Revisions To Certain Terminology.

CT HB05263

An Act Concerning A Study Of The Interstate Compact On The Placement Of Children And The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction And Enforcement Act.

CT HB05159

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Responsiveness Of State Agencies And The Judicial Branch To Issues Concerning Child Sexual Abuse.

CT SB00001

An Act Concerning The Health And Safety Of Connecticut Residents.

CT HB05247

An Act Concerning Employee Health Benefit Consortiums.

Similar Bills

CT SB01012

An Act Concerning The Department Of Children And Families' Recommendations For Revisions To Statutes Concerning Children.

CT HB07113

An Act Concerning Prenatal Opioid And Opiate Exposure.

CT SB00206

An Act Concerning The Department Of Children And Families' Recommendations For Revisions To The Statutes Concerning Children.

CT SB00895

An Act Concerning The Department Of Children And Families' Standards And Reporting Requirements.

CT SB01311

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Department Of Children And Families.

CT SB01199

An Act Concerning The Department Of Children And Families' Differential Response And Poverty Exemption And A Report On Episodes Of Unauthorized Absences Of Children And Youth In The Department's Care.

CT HB05470

An Act Concerning The Provision Of Timely Notice Of Child Placement Information From The Department Of Children And Families To The Attorney Or Guardian Ad Litem Representing The Child In A Child Protection Matter.

CT SB01113

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Connecticut Sentencing Commission With Respect To The Sexual Offender Registry, Petitions To Terminate Parental Rights Of Incarcerated Parents And Sentence Review And Sentence Modification.