Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN) - 1650

Tonight's special guest is Debra Betesh from New York City, a returning NAASCA family member and social activist who created the 'Precious Child Act,' a bill against sexual abuse to ensure safety for New York State’s children. It was referred to various committees in 2015, 2016 and 2017. Debbie was inspired when a community member near and dear to her heart who'd been sexually abused as a child later took his own life. She explains, "The 'Precious Child Act' will step in to defend the well being of our children and mandate instruction on important matters." Among other things Part I mandates DNA testing for any person arrested for a 'felony offense' related to sexual offenses against a child less than 13 years old. The bill would empower children. Part II mandates child sexual abuse education in New York State’s curriculum. Students in sixth through eighth grade would receive instruction via the state-approved video, 'Child Sexual Predators: The Familiar Stranger'. Part III will be Erin Merryn’s Law. This law will require schools to add age-appropriate education on sexual exploitation and abuse when they are taught about abduction. Children in grades kindergarten through eighth will benefit from this education. Debbie "By joining forces with the Precious Child Act, we will be proactive about children's safety. Eventually, I’d like to get this act passed nationwide, because I know it will truly make a difference."