Missouri 2024 Regular Session

Missouri Senate Bill SB1092

Introduced
1/3/24  

Caption

Establishes provisions requiring liability insurance and prevention policies of childhood sexual abuse for child care providers and modifies civil actions for childhood sexual abuse

Impact

The bill notably repeals previous regulations on child care provider liability and establishes new standards that hold providers accountable for the safety of children. By implementing these required practices, the bill is expected to create a stronger legal framework for protecting children from potential abuses within care settings. This change may lead to increased operational costs for child care providers, as they will need to secure appropriate insurance and ensure compliance with the new training and policy requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 1092 aims to enhance the safety of children in care by mandating that child care providers obtain liability insurance and implement robust policies to prevent childhood sexual abuse. Specifically, the bill requires licensed child care providers to demonstrate liability insurance coverage of at least one million dollars per occurrence, which must also cover claims for physical injury, mental suffering, and death pertaining to children in their care. Furthermore, the bill mandates that child care facilities provide policies that outline training and procedural protocols that staff must follow to prevent incidents of sexual abuse.

Contention

While supporters of SB1092 advocate for its potential to reduce instances of childhood sexual abuse by holding providers to higher safety standards, there may be contention regarding the legislative burden it places on smaller child care facilities. Opponents may argue that the stringent insurance requirements and mandatory policies could disproportionately affect smaller providers with limited resources, potentially resulting in service shortages in certain areas. Additionally, discussions may arise about whether the state should impose liability standards that might deter individuals from starting home-based child care services due to increased financial risk.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB416

Modifies provisions relating to civil actions for childhood sexual abuse

MO HB367

Modifies provisions relating to civil actions for childhood sexual abuse

MO SB99

Modifies provisions relating to childhood immunizations

MO SB708

Modifies provisions relating to civil actions

MO SB429

Modifies provisions relating to sexually oriented businesses

MO SB495

Modifies provisions relating to state funding for certain early childhood education programs

MO SB656

Modifies provisions relating to the sexual offender registry

MO SB467

Modifies provisions relating to determination of fault of parties and nonparties in civil actions

MO SB157

Modifies provisions relating to professions requiring licensure

MO HB994

Modifies and establishes provisions relating to judicial proceedings

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.