New YorkBill would excuse lawyers' social workers from reporting some abuse suspicions
If enacted, the bill would let certain social workers skip reporting suspected child abuse when their belief comes only from a lawyer's work or someone seeking that lawyer's help.
What it does
Social workers working for or supervised by lawyers would not have to report suspected child abuse when their belief comes only from legal representation or someone seeking it.
Argument forPeople seeking legal help might speak more freely if social workers working with their lawyers do not have to report suspicions based only on that legal work.
Argument againstChildren might receive less protection if a social worker does not report suspected abuse based only on information learned through legal representation.
More detail
The bill would excuse certain social workers from reporting suspected child abuse or maltreatment. This applies when a social worker is employed or supervised by a lawyer representing someone, or by a lawyer a prospective client is seeking, in a criminal or civil matter. Family and delinquency matters are included. The suspected abuse or maltreatment must be based solely on the legal representation or on seeking that representation. The bill would take effect immediately if enacted.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Sep 2REFERRED TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIESIntroduced
Criminal Justice