An Act concerning child abuse and amending P.L.1971, c.437.
Be It Enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:
1. Section 3 of P.L.1971, c.437 (C.9:6-8.10) is amended to read as follows:
C.9:6-8.10 Report of abuse.
3. Any person having reasonable cause to believe that a child has been subjected to child abuse, including sexual abuse, or acts of child abuse shall report the same immediately to the Division of Child Protection and Permanency by telephone or otherwise.
Such reports, where possible, shall contain the names and addresses of the child and his parent, guardian, or other person having custody and control of the child and, if known, the child's age, the nature and possible extent of the child's injuries, abuse or maltreatment, including any evidence of previous injuries, abuse or maltreatment, and any other information that the person believes may be helpful with respect to the child abuse and the identity of the perpetrator.
2. Section 7 of P.L.1971, c.437 (C.9:6-8.14) is amended to read as follows:
C.9:6-8.14 Violations, degree of crime.
7. a. Except as provided in subsection b. of this section any person knowingly violating the provisions of this act including the failure to report an act of child abuse having reasonable cause to believe that an act of child abuse has been committed, is a disorderly person.
b. Any person who knowingly fails to report an act of sexual abuse against a child and who has reasonable cause to believe that an act of sexual abuse has been committed is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.
3. This act shall take effect immediately.
Approved March 18, 2019.