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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Fourth Legislature, Second Regular Session
schools; required posting; abuse hotline
Purpose
Requires each district and charter school to post a sign at each school containing information on reporting child abuse and neglect.
Background
Statute requires any person to immediately report to a peace officer, the Department of Child Safety (DCS) or a tribal law enforcement officer or social services agency about a minor who the person reasonably believes is or has been the victim of physical injury, abuse, child abuse, a reportable offense or neglect that appears to have been inflicted on the minor by other than accidental means or that is not explained by the available medical history (A.R.S. § 13-3620).
DCS operates a statewide centralized intake hotline (hotline) that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to protect children by receiving incoming communications and referrals concerning suspected child abuse or neglect. The hotline encompasses a toll-free telephone number and an electronic reporting service, specifically for the purpose of accepting communications regarding suspected child abuse or neglect. DCS accepts anonymous reports; however, individuals making a report will be asked to identify themselves while being informed that their identity is confidential and released only as required by law (DCS).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Requires each district and charter school to post a sign in a public area, that is a clearly visible location of the school readily accessible to students, containing:
a) the telephone number, in bold print, of the (hotline) concerning suspected child abuse and neglect of children;
b) instructions to call 9-1-1 for emergencies; and
c) directions for accessing the DCS website for more information on reporting child abuse, neglect and exploitation of children.
2. Becomes effective on the general effective date.
Prepared by Senate Research
February 7, 2020
JO/MB/kja