2021 Louisiana Laws
Revised Statutes
Title 40 - Public Health and Safety
§2405.9. Identification of minor or dependent children of an arrested person; guidelines and training
RS 2405.9 - Identification of minor or dependent children of an arrested person; guidelines and training
A. The Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training shall develop guidelines and provide training for law enforcement agencies on identifying and ensuring the safety of minor or dependent children upon the arrest of the child's parent or guardian.
B. The guidelines and training shall include all of the following:
(1) Procedures to ensure that law enforcement officers inquire or otherwise ascertain whether an arrested person has a minor or dependent under his care, custody, or control at the time of the arrest.
(2) Procedures for the proper arrangement of temporary care for children to ensure their safety and well-being with a priority on placing children with supportive family members and trusted adults.
(3) Education on how witnessing a violent crime or other event causes emotional harm to children and how law enforcement can assist in mitigating the long-term effects of the trauma.
(4) Procedures for reporting on the number of instances requiring a referral to a partner organization or transportation of the child to a child advocacy center when the child is unable to be placed with a family member.
(5) Procedures to ensure law enforcement officers receive annual training as mandatory reporters of child abuse or neglect in accordance with Children's Code Article 609.
C. The council shall work in conjunction with and receive input from appropriate nongovernmental organizations and other relevant organizations that are invested in the rights of children with incarcerated parents to develop and establish the guidelines and training program required by this Section.
D. Nothing in this Section shall preclude a law enforcement officer's responsibility as a mandatory reporter to report suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with Children's Code Article 603.
Acts 2021, No. 126, §1.
