SB471

Establishes the Child Welfare Death Review Panel to investigate child fatalities and unexpected deaths.

Louisiana SB471 establishes the Child Welfare Death Review Panel within the Department of Children and Family Services. The panel will review child fatalities and unexpected deaths of children under 18 in the department's custody or care. The panel will obtain data and records from healthcare providers and other sources to identify patterns and systemic problems, aiming to reduce the incidence of such deaths. The panel will be composed of sixteen members, including health professionals and a pediatrician. The bill takes effect January 1, 2027.