AB 1566: Crimes: mandated reporters: severe neglect.

This bill aims to recast the definition of "severe neglect" for mandated reporters, including teachers and social workers, in the context of the child abuse and neglect reporting act. Severe neglect is defined as the failure to protect a child from severe malnutrition or medically diagnosed nonorganic failure to thrive, or situations where a child's health or person is endangered due to inadequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care. Mandated reporters are required to report any known or reasonably suspected child abuse or severe neglect. Failure to report is a misdemeanor, and prosecution must be commenced within one year of the commission of the offense. Intentional concealment of a failure to report is a continuing offense that can be prosecuted within one year of discovery.