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COMMITTEE REPORT
April 24, 2002
S. 970
S. Printed 4/24/02--S. [SEC 4/25/02 3:57 PM]
Read the first time February 5, 2002.
To whom was referred a Bill (S. 970) to amend the Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1976, by adding Section 20-7-495 so as to provide for the establishment of nonprofit children's advocacy centers throughout the State, etc., respectfully
That they have duly and carefully considered the same and recommend that the same do pass:
C. BRADLEY HUTTO for Committee.
EXPLANATION OF IMPACT:
The implementation of this bill would have no impact on the General Fund of the State as it merely defines 'children's advocacy center', addresses their relationships with governmental entities, provides for confidentiality of records, provides immunity from liability for good faith acts and specifies the activities of the South Carolina Network of Children's Advocacy Centers.
Approved By:
Don Addy
Office of State Budget
TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 20-7-495 SO AS TO PROVIDE FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF NONPROFIT CHILDREN'S ADVOCACY CENTERS THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
Whereas, the General Assembly finds that the establishment of children's advocacy centers throughout the State is desirable to promote a multi-disciplinary, coordinated approach to handling child sexual abuse cases and child physical abuse cases, thus minimizing the stress created for the child by the investigation, treatment, and prosecution of these child abuse cases.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:
SECTION 1. The 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 20-7-495. (A) 'Children's advocacy center' means an organization that assists in the coordination of the investigation of child sexual abuse and child physical abuse by providing:
(1) a neutral, child-friendly facility for forensic interviews;
(2) the coordination of services for children reported to have been abused; and
(3) services including, but not limited to, staffing of multi-disciplinary teams, forensic medical examinations, mental health and related support services, court advocacy, consultation, and training.
(B)(1) Children's advocacy centers, which may be nonprofit corporations, should seek to establish memoranda of agreements with governmental entities charged with the investigation, treatment, and prosecution of child abuse. Fully operational centers should function in a manner consistent with standards of the National Children's Alliance.
(2) Children's advocacy center records are confidential, except that relevant information may be released to investigatory and prosecuting agencies. In all other circumstances, information may be released only upon the written consent of a child's custodial parent or guardian or upon subpoena or court order.
(3) Staff and volunteers of a children's advocacy center who act in good faith within the scope of their responsibilities and who are not guilty of gross negligence are immune from liability.
(C) The South Carolina Network of Children's Advocacy Centers shall facilitate exchange of information and assistance among centers, provide training opportunities, and shall assist in the development of centers."
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
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