Plain English Breakdown
The official text states the bill 'would recast' the definition, indicating a proposal. However, metadata shows it was ordered to an inactive file by its sponsor.
AB-1566: Recasting the Definition of Severe Neglect
This bill proposes to change how California law defines 'severe neglect' for mandated reporters, but it was ordered to an inactive file and did not become effective.
What This Bill Does
- Proposes to recast (rewrite) the legal definition of 'severe neglect' under existing reporting laws.
Who It Names or Affects
- Mandated reporters, such as teachers and social workers, who must report suspected child abuse or neglect.
- People having care or custody of children whose actions might be defined as severe neglect.
Terms To Know
- Mandated reporter
- A person required by law to report known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect when observed in their professional capacity.
- Severe neglect
- Under existing law, this includes negligent failure to protect a child from severe malnutrition or medically diagnosed nonorganic failure to thrive, and willfully placing a child's health in danger by failing to provide food, clothing, shelter, or medical care.
Limits and Unknowns
- The official text does not state the specific new wording for the definition of severe neglect.
- The bill was ordered to an inactive file at the request of its sponsor and has no effective date listed.
- Because it is in an inactive file, this legislation did not become law.