❌ HB371
Make elected officials mandatory child abuse, neglect reporters
Summary
The bill mandates that elected officials in Ohio report any suspected child abuse or neglect involving individuals under eighteen years of age or those under twenty-one with disabilities. It specifies the reporting process and outlines penalties for failing to report. The bill also includes provisions for confidentiality and immunity for those making reports in good faith.
Rationale
The bill imposes mandatory reporting requirements on elected officials, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of personal liberty and minimal government intervention. While it aims to protect children, it also increases government oversight and obligations on individuals, which may be seen as an infringement on personal freedoms. The Libertarian Party of Ohio may find some alignment due to the focus on protecting children, but the mandatory nature of the reporting could still be viewed as problematic.
Risks and Concerns
- Increased government oversight and intervention
- Potential for misuse of reporting requirements
- Infringement on personal liberties and responsibilities