(Photo: MGN)WILMINGTON, Del. (AP/WBOC)- Legislation aimed at strengthening prosecution of child-abuse cases is now law in Delaware.
A bill signed by Gov. Jack Markell on Wednesday broadens language in existing statutes, creating the new felony of second-degree child abuse. Second-degree abuse includes intentionally or recklessly injuring a child who is 3 years old or younger or who has significant intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Because the bill defines injury as "any impairment of physical condition or pain," some critics worried that parents could be prosecuted simply for spanking their young children. Supporters say the measure does not outlaw spanking or prohibit parents from using reasonable and appropriate discipline.
In addition to providing special protection to infants, toddlers and children who have disabilities, the new law also expands Delaware's existing endangering the welfare of a child charge to include knowing, intentional, and reckless acts that are likely to cause injury to a child.
