An act relating to revising child abuse and neglect substantiation procedures

This bill updates Vermont's procedures for reviewing and challenging decisions to place individuals on the Child Protection Registry. It extends the timeframes for administrative reviews and appeals, allows reviews to proceed even if the person does not respond or appear, and permits virtual hearings during state emergencies. Additionally, the bill requires that children placed on the registry between ages 10 and 18 follow the same review procedures as adults. These changes apply to the Commissioner for Children and Families' Registry Review Unit and affect individuals who have been substantiated for child abuse or neglect.