Children: services; reference to "children's ombudsman" in the child protection law; amend to "child advocate". Amends secs. 7, 7b & 7k of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.627 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0432'23
Impact
This bill specifically amends sections of the 1975 PA 238, which governs child abuse reporting and protective services. It establishes a more robust system for handling cases of child abuse, requiring better cooperation between different state agencies and improving accountability. Notably, it introduces a mandate for notification of specific parties, including the child advocate, when a child who has been under court jurisdiction dies, thereby promoting transparency and further investigation into such incidents.
Summary
Senate Bill 436 aims to amend the existing child protection law in Michigan by changing the references from 'children's ombudsman' to 'child advocate'. The bill enhances the procedures and responsibilities surrounding the reporting of child abuse and neglect, broadening who is mandated to report and establishing clearer protocols for dealing with sensitive cases. It incorporates updates meant to strengthen the welfare and protection of children who are victims of abuse or neglect while clarifying the confidential nature of related records.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB 436 appears to be positive, especially among child welfare advocates who believe the revisions will enhance safeguards for vulnerable populations. Many stakeholders agree that increasing the scope of who must report abuse and ensuring that confidentiality is respected are significant steps forward. However, there are concerns from certain advocacy groups about the implementation of these changes and the need for adequate training and resources to ensure effective execution.
Contention
While the sentiment seems generally favorable, there are points of contention regarding the amendments proposed in the bill, particularly about maintaining sufficient confidentiality for individuals involved in abuse cases. Critics fear that too much focus on reporting could deter individuals from speaking out if they feel their identities are not adequately protected. Therefore, the discussions surrounding this bill have highlighted the delicate balance between protecting children and ensuring that those reporting abuse feel safe and secure.
Same As
Children: services; children's ombudsman; rename, and modify powers and duties. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & 12 of 1994 PA 204 (MCL 722.921 et seq.).
Children: services; reference to “children’s ombudsman” in the child protection law; amend to “child advocate”. Amends secs. 7, 7b & 7k of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.627 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4638'23
Children: services; reference to "children's ombudsman" in 1973 PA 116; amend to "child advocate". Amends secs. 5a & 10 of 1973 PA 116 (MCL 722.115a & 722.120). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0432'23
Children: services; reference to “children’s ombudsman” in the probate code of 1939; amend to “child advocate”. Amends secs. 67 & 68, ch. X & sec. 19b, ch. XIIA of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 710.67 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0432'23
Children: services; reference to "children's ombudsman" in the probate code of 1939; amend to "child advocate". Amends secs. 67 & 68, ch. X & sec. 19b, ch. XIIA of 1939 PA 288 (MCL 710.67 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4638'23
Children: services; reference to “children’s ombudsman” in 1973 PA 116; amend to “child advocate”. Amends secs. 5a & 10 of 1973 PA 116 (MCL 722.115a & 722.120). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4638'23
Children: services; reference to “children’s ombudsman” in the foster care and adoption services act; amend to “child advocate”. Amends secs. 5, 8a, 8b & 8d of 1994 PA 203 (MCL 722.955 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0432'23
Children: services; acknowledgement of child protective services cases to certain media sources; provide for. Amends sec. 7 of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.627).
Children: services; reference to "children's ombudsman" in the foster care and adoption services act; amend to "child advocate". Amends secs. 5, 8a, 8b & 8d of 1994 PA 203 (MCL 722.955 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4638'23
Children: services; reference to “children’s ombudsman” in the child protection law; amend to “child advocate”. Amends secs. 7, 7b & 7k of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.627 et seq.). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4638'23
An Act Concerning The Department Of Correction, A Reentry Employment Advisory Committee, Public Safety Committees In Municipalities Where A Correctional Facility Is Located, The Disclosure Of Records, The Protection Of Personal Data Relating To An Employee Of The Department Of Correction And The Provision Of Debit Cards To Incarcerated Persons At The Time Of Release.
Relating to advisory bodies for the Department of Family and Protective Services, including the creation of the child protective investigations advisory committee and the abolition of the Family and Protective Services Council.
Office of Emergency Medical Services established to replace Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board, duties specified and transferred, advisory council established, alternative EMS response model pilot program established, conforming changes made, provisions modified relating to ambulance service personnel and emergency medical responders, emergency ambulance service aid provided, report required, and money appropriated.