AOL: ‘Bible is pretty clear about where God’s heart is’: Bill would make clergy mandated reporters Joe Cheray, an abuse survivor, testified Monday in favor of a bill that would make clergy mandated reporters when they suspect a child is being abused. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from the House ... ‘Bible is pretty clear about where God’s heart is’: Bill would make clergy mandated reporters TOPEKA — Kansas ordained clergy would be mandated reporters of child abuse under a bill proposed Monday in the House Judiciary Committee, and proponents hope this will be the year it passes.

Understanding the Context

House ... How do I report child abuse? See the two things mandated reporters must do when they suspect a child is was, is, or will be abused. Child Abuse and Neglect Careline number is 800-842-2288.

Key Insights

Note: Effective 6/6/22, DCF now allows mandated reporters to file non-emergent reports via an online portal by utilizing mobile devices, tablets, laptops, or a desktop computer. The portal is available at: https://portal.dcf.ct.gov. Mandated reporters are people required by law to report suspected or known instances of abuse. In most states, mandated reporters are designated by their profession. Mandated Reporters are individuals who are legally obligated to report suspected abuse, which can include child abuse, elder abuse, and human trafficking.

Final Thoughts

Requirements vary based on your state or territory and profession. If you're a mandated reporter, your duty to report suspected abuse comes with real deadlines — and real consequences when those deadlines are missed. Mandated reporters must report the moment they develop a reasonable suspicion that abuse or neglect has occurred or is occurring. A mandated reporter is a person who is required by law to report crimes, typically if they know or suspect a child or vulnerable adult has been or is at risk of being abused or neglected. Mandatory reporting laws can also extend to vulnerable adults due to a disability, mental illness, or old age. Mandated Reporters are individuals who are legally obligated to report suspected abuse, which can include child abuse, domestic abuse, elder abuse, and animal abuse.

Mandated reporters are legally required to follow state laws about reporting abuse and neglect. Failing to make a report is a crime and is classed as a misdemeanor in most states, with specific penalties varying by jurisdiction.