MDCPS state central registry; revise provisions related to.

Courts are now required to send copies of judgments regarding child abuse or neglect directly to the Department of Child Protection Services.

Judges are authorized to place parents or guardians on the State Central Registry if they qualify as a 'substantiated perpetrator' of abuse or neglect.

Physician-patient privilege is waived in child abuse cases, allowing doctors to testify about a child's injuries without restriction.

New definitions were added for 'torture' (including forcing a child to sit in urine or extreme temperatures) and 'serious bodily harm' (including brain damage and permanent disfigurement).

The definition of a 'child' was updated to exclude those on active military duty or who are married.

Penalties for child abuse were increased, with specific sentences for acts causing serious bodily harm or torture, and a provision for life imprisonment for repeat offenders.

The bill clarifies that 'reasonable discipline' is a legal defense only for minor infractions and does not apply if a child suffers serious bodily harm or is subjected to torture.