Abuse reports would prompt checks for young children

A caseworker would have to examine the child for bruises. If the worker found evidence of abuse, the worker would have to take the child into custody immediately and arrange photos and a medical exam. If law enforcement joins the assessment, it would arrange the photos instead. An X-ray would be required when medically needed. This would apply when the department receives a report of known or suspected abuse involving a child younger than five. The caseworker would examine the child's head, face, arms, legs, chest, and back. If a law enforcement agency joins the assessment, it would have to arrange the photos instead of the department. The bill sets July 1, 2026, as the effective date.

The department could arrange a health screening or medical exam and would pay for it. This would apply to a child who is at least five years old and is named in a report of known or suspected abuse. The bill sets July 1, 2026, as the effective date.