Mandated Reporting

In all states, anyone who works with or has contact with people under 18 years of age is a mandated reporter. Mandated reporters are required to report any cases of child abuse or neglect to a state organization. Mandated reporting is intended to play a key role in making sure the children in a community are safe and cared for.

Pennsylvania Mandated Reporting Laws

In Pennsylvania, a report to Childline is required any time you learn or suspect a perpetrator of engaging in child abuse or neglect of anyone under 18 through action or failure to act.

  • A parent or caregiver

  • Anyone 14 years or older, living in the same house

  • A relative 18 years of older NOT living in the same house

  • Anyone 14 years or older, responsible for the welfare of a child such as working in childcare

  • Causing bodily injury

  • Causing or contributing significantly to a mental injury

  • Causing sexual abuse or exploitation

  • Causing serious physical neglect

  • Create a likelihood of physical or sexual violence or injury

Kansas Mandated Reporting Laws

In Kansas, reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be called into 1-800-922-5330 or submitted online through the Kansas Department for Children and Families.

  • Physical or psychological harm

  • Neglect by a parent, guardian, or other responsible caretaker

  • Physical, mental, or emotional abuse

  • Sexual abuse

  • Sexual trafficking

Missouri Mandated Reporting Laws

In Missouri, reports of suspected child abuse or neglect should be called into 800-392-3738 or submitted online through the Missouri Department of Social Services.

  • Physical injury

  • Emotional abuse

  • Neglect of proper of necessary support

  • Sexual abuse

  • Sexual trafficking

Mandated Reporting & ETHR

ETHR focuses on adolescent dating relationships for young people 12-16 years of age and never asks if anyone has experienced violence or abuse in their relationships. However, opening a safe space to the conversation of partner violence may encourage adolescents or their caregivers to confide in you, so it’s important to know what your responsibilities are as a mandated reporter.

Most adolescents and their partners won’t be considered “perpetrators” under Pennsylvania law, so even violent behavior between adolescents doesn’t qualify for mandated reporting. You might be more likely to hear about an adult in their life or in their caregiver’s life who has perpetrated or contributed to abuse.

Additionally, child exposure to caregiver partner violence is NOT reportable in Pennsylvania, Missouri, or Kansas without concurrent child abuse or neglect. When an adolescent or their caregivers discloses a violent or abusive experience, follow the disclosure guides, check the mandated reporting guidelines, and use your discretion to connect them with resources in the best interest of the family’s wellness and safety. If you have any questions, please contact Maya Ragavan, Kimberly Randell, WC&S or Rose Brooks.

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