Sec. 15. (a) If the department classifies an assessment as unsubstantiated, the department may provide information about community service programs that provide respite care, voluntary guardianship, or other support services for families in crisis to the parent or guardian of the child who is the subject of the assessment.
(b) If the department provides information to a parent or guardian under subsection (a), the department may not initiate an investigation or assessment or substantiate an assessment of child abuse or neglect based solely on the provision of the information.
(c) If the department classifies an assessment as substantiated, the department may refer the parent or guardian to a community service program that provides respite care, voluntary guardianship, or other support services for families in crisis as appropriate to meet the needs of the family.
(d) The provision of information by the department under subsection (a) does not result in, or may not be considered to result in, any obligation on the part of the department.
(e) The department is not liable for any action arising out of having furnished the information in the manner required under subsection (a), including any delegation of powers executed under IC 29-3-9-1.
As added by P.L.74-2016, SEC.2.
Structure Indiana Code
Title 31. Family Law and Juvenile Law
Article 33. Juvenile Law: Reporting and Investigation of Child Abuse and Neglect
Chapter 8. Investigation of Reports of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
31-33-8-2. Investigations by Law Enforcement Agencies
31-33-8-3. Photographs and X-Rays
31-33-8-4. Notice to Prosecuting Attorney of Reports Involving Child's Death
31-33-8-5. Forwarding Copies of Reports to Prosecuting Attorney
31-33-8-6. Investigatory Duties of Department of Child Services; Purpose
31-33-8-7.5. Reporting of Observed or Suspected Animal Cruelty, Abandonment, or Neglect
31-33-8-8. Order for Child's Immediate Removal; Preparation of Investigative Report
31-33-8-9. Provision of Copies of Investigative Report by Department of Child Services
31-33-8-10. Provision of Information and Copies of Investigative Report by Law Enforcement Agency
31-33-8-11. Law Enforcement Agency's Duty to Release Information to Department of Child Services
31-33-8-12. Classifying Reports as Substantiated or Unsubstantiated
31-33-8-13. Court Findings to Be Entered in the Child Protection Index