NCJ Number
195030
Date Published
1999
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This paper examines State child abuse reporting statutes.
Abstract
This paper reviews the development of reporting laws, analyzes reporting trends in every State and the District of Columbia, and considers the impact of mandatory reporting laws. Every State and the District of Columbia have enacted laws requiring the reporting of suspected child maltreatment. These laws demonstrate the diversity and complexity of the systems established by the States in recognition of their responsibility to victimized children. In addition, elements of the laws create a means to identify maltreated children so States can provide protective services and treatment. All reporting laws have common elements: (1) selected individuals mandated to report suspected child maltreatment; (2) reportable circumstances defined; (3) reporting procedures described; (4) agencies designated to receive and investigate reports; (5) provisions for immunity from prosecution; (6) penalties for failure to report and false reporting; (7) abrogation of certain privileged communication rights; (8) exemptions from the definitions of child maltreatment; and (9) existence and operation of a central registry. Notes