Bill to protect child abuse victims passes Senate unanimously

A bill sponsored by State Sen. Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) that would protect child abuse victims unanimously passed the Senate Monday, Feb. 26.

House Bill 1123 would allow the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) to use a child advocacy center to coordinate a team of specialized individuals to respond to reports of child abuse or neglect.

"The idea for this legislation came from Southwestern Indiana Child Advocacy Center Director Tammy Lambert, who informed me of the need to improve communication gaps between centers across Indiana," Messmer said. "After discussions with her, I worked with the House of Representatives to create this legislation."

The bill would also allow DCS to share confidential information with child advocacy centers about children involved in abusive situations.

"Protecting our most vulnerable Hoosiers is one of the top priorities of the General Assembly, and House Bill 1123 would give the state more tools to combat child abuse and neglect," Messmer said. "I look forward to working with DCS and the centers to ensure Hoosier children are kept safe."

The Senate amended HB 1123 and the bill will now return to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

For more information about the bill, click here.