Download This Version in Microsoft Word format
AMENDED
May 28, 2002
S. 970
S. Printed 5/28/02--H.
Read the first time May 1, 2002.
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.
Amend Title To Conform
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) 'Child abuse multidisciplinary resource center' means an entity that based on best practices assists in the coordination of the investigation of child sexual abuse and child physical abuse by providing as soon as available after receipt of the initial report:
(1) neutral, child-friendly facilities 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) Child abuse multidisciplinary resource centers, which may be nonprofit corporations, should seek to establish professional relationships with governmental entities charged with the investigation, treatment, and prosecution of child abuse.
(2) Child abuse multidisciplinary resource 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, upon court order, or by subpoena unless otherwise prohibited by law.
(3) Staff and volunteers of a child abuse multidisciplinary resource center who act in good faith within the scope of their responsibilities and who are not guilty of gross negligence are immune from liability."
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
This web page was last updated on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 2:30 P.M.