Proposed legislation that was introduced after Thomas Valva's death is now on hold.

Suffolk County lawmakers Thursday opted not to hold a public hearing on the measure yet. They say they want more time to review the bill.

Valva, an 8-year-old with autism, was forced to sleep in an unheated garage for months before he died. His father and his father's ex-fiancée are in prison for his murder.

The proposed law would allow people who report child abuse claims to file appeals if a case worker determines there is not enough evidence.

Dozens of teachers at Valva's school say they filed complaints with Suffolk County Child Protective Services before Valva's death.