Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Snyder signs bill reforming Central Perpetrator Registry

It is a damn shame it took a lawsuit to recognize due process rights.

LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today signed legislation reforming the Michigan Central Perpetrator Registry and the policies and procedures concerning its operation.

The Michigan Child Protection Law requires the state Department of Human Services (DHS) to maintain the confidential internal registry of confirmed child abuse and neglect perpetrators.

“This bill brings important changes to the central registry that will improve the process for everyone, while ensuring protection for Michigan’s youth and public safety,” Snyder said.

Under House Bill 4893, sponsored by state Rep. Margaret O’Brien, the state must now notify a person being placed on the list via certified mail with return receipt, and the person will now have 180 days to request a hearing.

A person could not remain on the list if a subsequent review of this decision fails to provide enough evidence.

Additionally, except for very serious offenders, names would be removed from the list after 10 years. The law previously required all names on the registry to remain until a registrant’s death.

When there is evidence that an individual has abused or neglected a child and the future risk to the child is high, that individual's name is placed on the registry.

In some cases, the Child Protection Law does require certain names to go on the registry regardless of risk. HB 4893 is now Public Act 30 of 2014.

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