HB 871 — Sovereign Immunity for Child Protection Teams
by Reps. Snyder and others (SB 826 by Senators Baxley and Harrell)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Children, Families, and Elder Affairs Committee (CF)
The bill extends sovereign immunity protections to any member of a child protection team (CPT), including a member who is an independent contractor, when the team member is carrying out her or his duties under the control, direction, and supervision of the state or any of its agencies or subdivisions.
A CPT is a group of professionals who receive referrals, primarily from child protective investigators and sheriff’s offices, when child abuse, abandonment, or neglect is alleged. The team, directed by a physician, evaluates the allegations, assesses risks, and provides recommendations for child safety and support services.
If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect July 1, 2021.
Vote: Senate 39-0; House 119-0