PHX Reporter

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has expressed her satisfaction following the passing of Senate Bill 1437, which clarifies procedures for reporting and investigating child abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect in Arizona. As a seasoned sex crimes prosecutor, Mitchell highlighted the importance of the new legislation.

“My office has received far too many reports of a child who told a teacher or School Resource Officer (SRO) what had happened to them, but the case couldn’t be pursued because there were so many errors in the way the interview of the child was conducted, or the investigation was handled. Now, we have a law that sets forth a precise process so we can advocate for and protect these kids,” Mitchell stated.

The existing law requires various individuals, including parents and guardians, to report suspicions of abuse to a law enforcement officer, the Arizona Department of Child Safety, or a tribal government. SB 1437 expands this list, adding substitute teachers and school governing board members as mandatory reporters, and mandates clear reporting procedures:

- School employees must report directly to a law enforcement agency and the Department of Child Safety.

- Reporting to a supervisor or school resource officer (SRO) is not sufficient.

- Student victims must be interviewed by specially trained forensic interviewers rather than school administrators, teachers, counselors, or SROs.

- Allegations against school personnel, including third-party contractors, have to be reported to the Arizona State Board of Education within three days.

Additionally, the law enhances whistleblower protections for school personnel reporting abuse allegations.

Mitchell expressed her gratitude towards Senator Carine Werner, who sponsored the bill, and Governor Hobbs for signing it into law. “I am deeply grateful to Senator Carine Werner who recognized the need, sponsored this bill, and worked hard to gain its passage. I also thank Governor Hobbs for seeing the value in this legislation and signing it into law,” Mitchell added.

The law will come into effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns for the year. In a video, Mitchell provides an overview of mandatory reporting and outlines the responsibilities for those working in schools, religious organizations, and medical offices.