Legislature(2005 - 2006)
2006-01-30 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2006-01-30 House Journal Page 2383 HB 408 HOUSE BILL NO. 408 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act relating to the definition of 'child abuse and neglect' for child protection purposes; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Health, Education & Social Services and Finance Committees. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Zero, Dept. of Health & Social Services The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 27, 2006, follows: "Dear Speaker Harris: Under the authority of art. III, sec. 18, of the Alaska Constitution, I am transmitting a bill relating to the definition of "child abuse and neglect" for child protection purposes. 2006-01-30 House Journal Page 2384 This bill would clarify that the definition "child" includes an infant who has been identified by a health care provider involved in the delivery or care of that infant as being affected by abuse of a controlled substance or from withdrawal from prenatal exposure to a controlled substance. The purpose of the bill is to ensure that health care professionals report such infants to the Department of Health and Social Services under the state's mandatory reporting laws for child abuse and neglect. This provision is necessary to be in compliance with federal law as a condition of continued federal funding for child abuse and neglect prevention and treatment. I urge your prompt and favorable action on this measure. Sincerely yours, /s/ Frank H. Murkowski Governor"