Requirements for mandatory reports of child maltreatment modified, and criminal penalties for failure to report child maltreatment modified.

This bill modifies Minnesota's child maltreatment reporting requirements and adjusts criminal penalties for failing to report suspected abuse. It expands the definition of mandatory reporters to include clergy members who receive information during ministerial duties, while maintaining protections for privileged communications. The legislation also clarifies that organizations cannot have policies that discourage reporters from filing abuse reports. Additionally, the bill increases penalties for failure to report, making it a felony when multiple children are abused by the same offender, and strengthens civil liability for knowingly making false reports. These changes aim to improve child safety by broadening who must report abuse and increasing consequences for non-compliance.