ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Child-protection legislation inspired by the maltreatment death of a 4-year-old boy is on the verge of becoming law after unanimous Senate approval.

The bill marks the first of what could be several changes to result from a task force review ordered following Eric Dean's death.

The bill repeals a law preventing social workers from considering past reports of child abuse when deciding whether to investigate new ones. It also clarifies that child safety is paramount in decision-making on claims of abuse of minors.

Dean was killed by his stepmother in 2013 after numerous complaints lodged with county social service failed to prompt action.

The same bill unanimously passed the House weeks ago.

The task force formed by Gov. Mark Dayton is due to finalize more recommendations in coming weeks.

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