Relating to use of technology in child abuse and neglect investigations

The department name was changed from 'Department of Human Services' to 'Department of Health and Human Resources Services'.

A new section was added requiring a pilot program in two counties to use mobile devices for accessing the case management system during child abuse investigations.

Annual reports on the mobile technology pilot must be filed with the Legislative Oversight Commission on Health and Human Resources Accountability starting July 1, 2028.

The new pilot program for mobile devices is set to terminate five years after full implementation in two counties.

Added a new section establishing a pilot program to contract private entities for caseworker aide services to supplement existing staff with administrative support.

Modified the mobile device pilot to clarify its purpose as enhancing real-time fact gathering and data management, and updated the requirement for digital records to specify 'Child Protective Services' in a formal title.

Added specific criteria for selecting districts for the caseworker aide pilot, including high caseloads, persistent vacancies, and high rates of out-of-state foster care placements.

Changed the reporting requirement for the mobile pilot from annual reports to a single written report submitted before the pilot concludes.

Added a provision allowing the department to continue or expand the pilot program statewide if the evaluation demonstrates improved outcomes.