National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse 

and Neglect Information 

Children’s Bureau/ACYF

1250 Maryland Avenue, SW 

Eighth Floor 

Washington, DC 20024 

800.394.3366 or 703.385.7565 

nccanch@caliber.com 

http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Administration for Children and Families

Administration on Children, Youth and Families

Children’s Bureau

Gateways to Information: Protecting Children and Strengthening Families 

National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information 

National Adoption Information Clearinghouse 

State Statutes Series 

Cross-Reporting Among Responders to Child Abuse 

and Neglect: Full-Text Excerpts of State Laws

The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 5106a), 

requires States to make provision for the cooperation of State law enforcement officials 

and State agencies providing human services in the investigation, assessment, 

prosecution, and treatment of child abuse or neglect. 

All 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories have statutes specifying 

procedures that State agencies must follow in handling reports of suspected child abuse 

or neglect. In most States, these procedures include requirements for cross-system 

reporting and/or information sharing among professional entities. Typically, reports are 

shared among social services agencies, law enforcement departments, and prosecutors' 

offices. 

In most States, a mandated reporter or concerned citizen can make a report of 

suspected child maltreatment to a reporting hotline, the child protection agency, or a law 

enforcement agency. State laws require such agencies to share these reports with 

specific agencies (i.e., cross-report), so that needed information is available to the 

agency that must respond to the report. For example, child protective services agencies 

have responsibility for cases in which the suspected abuse or neglect is caused by a 

parent, family member, or other caregiver. Cases in which the suspected abuse is 

caused by someone other than a family member, or in which the abuse results in severe 

injury to the child, are considered crimes and are handled by law enforcement agencies. 

Why CrossReporting Is

Needed

The information in this document is current through July 2005. 

This publication is a product of the State Statutes Series prepared by the National Clearinghouse on Child 

Abuse and Neglect Information. Publications with Full-Text Excerpts of State Laws contain excerpts of 

text with citations from specific sections of each State’s code that focus on a single issue. While every 

attempt has been made to be complete, additional information on these topics may be in other sections of 

a State’s code as well as in agency regulations, case law, and informal practices and procedures.

Electronic copies of this publication may be downloaded from the Clearinghouse website at 

http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov/general/legal/statutes/xreporting.cfm. 

• To find statute information for a particular State, go to 

http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov/general/legal/statutes/search. 

• To find information on all the States and territories, view the complete PDF at 

http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov/general/legal/statutes/xreportingall.pdf or call the Clearinghouse at 800. 

394.3366 or 703.385.7565 to order a copy. 
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Current Through July 2005 2 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Alabama 

 Ala. Code § 26-14-3(b)-(d) (Supp. 1997)

When an initial report is made to a law enforcement official, the official subsequently shall inform the Department of Human 

Resources of the report, so the department can carry out its responsibility to provide protective services, when deemed appropriate

to the respective child or children. 

When the Department of Human Resources receives initial reports of suspected abuse or neglect involving discipline or corporal 

punishment committed in a public or private school or suspected abuse or neglect in a State-operated child residential facility, the 

Department of Human Resources shall transmit a copy of school reports to the law enforcement agency, and residential facility 

reports to the operating State agency, which shall conduct the investigation. 

Nothing in this chapter shall preclude interagency agreements between Departments of Human Resources, law enforcement, and 

other State agencies on procedures for investigating reports of suspected child abuse and neglect to provide for Departments of

Human Resources to assist law enforcement and other State agencies in these investigations. 

 Ala. Code § 26-14-7(d) (1992) 

The county Department of Human Resources shall make a complete written report of the investigation, together with its 

recommendations. Such reports may be made available to the appropriate court, the district attorney, and the appropriate law

enforcement agency upon request. 

Alaska

 Alaska Stat. § 47.17.020(c), (e) (LexisNexis through 4-22-05)

If the person making a report of harm under this section cannot reasonably contact the nearest office of the Department of Health 

and Social Services and immediate action is necessary for the well-being of the child, the person shall make the report to a peace 

officer. The peace officer shall immediately take action to protect the child and shall, at the earliest opportunity, notify the nearest 

office of the Department. 

The Department of Health and Social Services shall immediately notify the nearest law enforcement agency if the Department: 

• Concludes that the harm was caused by a person who is not responsible for the child's welfare; 

• Is unable to determine who caused the harm to the child or whether the person who is believed to have caused the harm 

has responsibility for the child's welfare; or 

• Concludes that the report involves possible criminal conduct or abuse or neglect that results in the need for medical 

treatment of the child. 

 Alaska Stat. § 47.17.025(a) (LexisNexis through Alaska 2005 Legis Serv., Ch. 64)

A law enforcement agency shall immediately notify the Department of Health and Social Services of the receipt of a report of harm 

to a child from abuse. Upon receipt from any source of a report of harm to a child from abuse, the Department shall notify the 

Department of Law and investigate the report and, within 72 hours of the receipt of the report, shall provide a written report of its 

investigation of the harm to a child from abuse to the Department of Law for review. 
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Current Through July 2005 3 

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American Samoa

 A.S. Code § 45.2010(a) (A.S. Bar 2003)

Reports of known or suspected child abuse or neglect made under this chapter are immediately made to the department [of public 

safety] by a written report prepared by those persons required to report, if so requested by the receiving agency. The receiving 

agency forwards a copy of its own report to the central registry on forms supplied by the registry. 

If at any time a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is made to the [child protection] agency, the department [of public safety] 

must be notified. If a report of suspected child abuse or neglect is made to the department, the agency must be notified.

Arizona

 Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 13-3620(H) (LexisNexis through 2004 Sess.) 

When telephone or in-person reports are received by a peace officer, the officer shall immediately notify child protective services in 

the Department of Economic Security and make the information available to them. Notwithstanding any other statute, when child 

protective services receives these reports by telephone or in person, it shall immediately notify a peace officer in the appropriate 

jurisdiction. 

Arkansas

 Ark. Code Ann. § 12-12-509(c) (LexisNexis through Ark. 2005 Legis. Serv., Act 1706) 

Notification of any report of child maltreatment will be provided within 5 business days to the: 

• Legal parents of any child in foster care who is named as an alleged victim or offender; 

• Attorney ad litem of any foster child named as the victim or offender; 

• Attorney ad litem of all other children in the same foster home if the maltreatment occurred in the foster home; 

• Local law enforcement on allegations of severe maltreatment; and 

• The prosecuting attorney on allegations of severe maltreatment. 

 Ark. Code Ann. § 12-12-507(d)(1)-(e) (LexisNexis through Ark. 2005 Legis. Serv., Act 1706)

If the child abuse hotline receives notification that a client or a resident of any facility licensed or registered by the State of Arkansas 

has been subjected to child maltreatment while at such facility, then the department shall immediately notify that facility's licensing 

or registering authority of its receipt of initial notification of suspected maltreatment. 

When a person, agency, corporation, or partnership then providing substitute care for any child in the custody of the Department of 

Human Services, or a Department employee or employee's spouse or other person residing in the home is reported as being 

suspected of child maltreatment, the investigation shall be conducted pursuant to procedures established by the Department. Such 

procedures shall include referral of allegations to the Department of Arkansas State Police or appropriate law enforcement agency

should the allegation involve severe maltreatment. 
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Current Through July 2005 4 

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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

California

 Cal. Penal Code § 11166(i) (LexisNexis through 7-18-05) 

A law enforcement agency shall immediately, or as soon as practically possible, report by telephone to the agency given 

responsibility for investigation of cases and to the district attorney's office every known or suspected instance of child abuse or 

neglect reported to it, except acts or omissions coming within § 11165.2(b), that shall be reported only to the county welfare or 

probation department. A law enforcement agency shall report to the county welfare or probation department every known or 

suspected instance of child abuse or neglect reported to it that is alleged to have occurred as a result of the action of a person 

responsible for the child's welfare, or as the result of the failure of a person responsible for the child's welfare to adequately protect 

the minor from abuse when the person responsible for the child's welfare knew or reasonably should have known that the minor 

was in danger of abuse. A law enforcement agency also shall send, fax, or electronically transmit a written report thereof within 36 

hours of receiving the information concerning the incident to any agency to which it makes a telephone report under this 

subdivision. 

 Cal. Penal Code § 11166(j) (LexisNexis through 7-18-05) 

A county probation or welfare department shall immediately, or as soon as practically possible, report by telephone, fax, or 

electronically transmit to the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the case, to the agency given the responsibility for 

investigation of cases, and to the district attorney's office every known or suspected instance of child abuse or neglect, or reports 

made based on risk to a child that relates solely to the inability of the parent to provide the child with regular care due to the 

parent's substance abuse, that shall be reported only to the county welfare or probation department. A county probation or welfare 

department also shall send, fax, or electronically transmit a written report thereof within 36 hours of receiving the information 

concerning the incident to any agency to which it is required to make a telephone report under this subdivision. 

Colorado

 Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 19-3-308(4)(b), (5) (LexisNexis through Colo. 2005 Legis. Serv., H.B. 1141)

Upon the receipt of a report, if the county department reasonably believes that an incident of intrafamilial abuse or neglect has 

occurred, it shall immediately offer social services to the child who is the subject of the report and his family and may file a petition 

in the juvenile court or the district court with juvenile jurisdiction on behalf of such child. If, before the investigation is completed, the 

opinion of the investigators is that assistance of the local law enforcement agency is necessary for the protection of the child or 

other children under the same care, the local law enforcement agency shall be notified. If immediate removal is necessary to 

protect the child or other children under the same care from further abuse, the child or children may be placed in protective custody

in accordance with §§ 19-3-401(1)(a) and 19-3-405. 

If a local law enforcement agency receives a report of a known or suspected incident of intrafamilial abuse or neglect, it shall 

forthwith attempt to contact the county department in order to refer the case for investigation. If the local law enforcement agency is 

unable to contact the county department, it shall forthwith make a complete investigation and may institute appropriate legal 

proceedings on behalf of the subject child or other children under the same care. As a part of an investigation, the local law

enforcement agency shall have access to the records and reports of child abuse or neglect maintained by the State department for 

information under the name of the child or the suspected perpetrator. The local law enforcement agency, upon the receipt of a 

report and upon completion of any investigation it may undertake, shall forthwith forward a summary of the investigatory data plus 

all relevant documents to the county department. 

 Colo. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 19-3-307(3) (LexisNexis through 2004 Supp.) 

A copy of the report of known or suspected child abuse or neglect shall be transmitted immediately by the county department to the 

district attorney's office and to the local law enforcement agency. 

When the county department reasonably believes a criminal act of abuse or neglect of a child in foster care has occurred, the 

county department shall transmit immediately a copy of the written report prepared by the county department to the district 

attorney's office and to the local law enforcement agency.
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Current Through July 2005 5 

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Connecticut

 Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 17a-101h (LexisNexis through 5-12-05) 

Notwithstanding any provision of the general statutes to the contrary, any person authorized to conduct an investigation of abuse or

neglect shall coordinate investigatory activities in order to minimize the number of interviews of any child and share information with 

other persons authorized to conduct an investigation of child abuse or neglect, as appropriate. 

 Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 17a-101b(c) (LexisNexis through 5-12-05) 

If the Commissioner of Children and Families, or the commissioner's designee, receives a report alleging sexual abuse or serious 

physical abuse, including, but not limited to, a report that (1) a child has died; (2) a child has been sexually assaulted; (3) a child 

has suffered brain damage or loss or serious impairment of a bodily function or organ; (4) a child has been sexually exploited; or (5) 

a child has suffered serious nonaccidental physical injury, the commissioner shall, within 12 hours of receipt of such report, notify

the appropriate law enforcement agency. 

Delaware

 Del. Code Ann. tit. 16, § 906(b)(3)-(4), (13), (15) (LexisNexis through 5-6-05) 

The division may investigate any report, but shall conduct an investigation involving all reports, which if true, would constitute 

violations against a child a person responsible for the care, custody, and control of the child pursuant to the provisions of statute, or 

an attempt to commit any such crimes. The division staff shall contact the appropriate law enforcement agency upon receipt of any

report and shall provide such agency with a detailed description of the report received. 

The assisting law enforcement agency shall promptly conduct its own criminal investigation, and keep the division regularly 

apprised of the status and findings of its investigation. Law enforcement agencies and the division shall develop protocols to ensure 

compliance with this subsection. 

When a written report is made by a person required to report, the division shall contact the person who made such report within 48 

hours of the receipt of the report in order to ensure that full information has been received and to obtain any additional information 

or medical records, or both, that may be pertinent. 

Multidisciplinary services shall be used whenever possible in conducting the investigation or family assessment and services 

approach, including the services of law enforcement agencies, the medical community, and other agencies, both public and private. 

The division and the Attorney General's Office shall cooperate with law enforcement agencies and the Family Court to develop 

training programs to increase the ability of division personnel, court personnel, and law enforcement officers to investigate 

suspected cases of abuse and neglect. 

District of Columbia

 D.C. Code Ann. § 4-1321.02(d) (WESTLAW through 10-2-01) 

In addition to the requirements above [of this section, pertaining to reporting requirements], any mental health professional, or a law

enforcement officer, except an undercover officer whose identity or investigation might be jeopardized, shall report immediately, in

writing, to the Child Protective Services Division that the law enforcement officer or health professional has reasonable cause to 

believe that a child is abused as a result of inadequate care, control, or subsistence in the home environment due to exposure to 

drug-related activity. 
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Current Through July 2005 6 

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Florida

 Fla. Stat. Ann. § 39.301(2)(a), (c) (LexisNexis through Fla. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 175) 

The department shall immediately forward allegations of criminal conduct to the municipal or county law enforcement agency of the 

municipality or county in which the alleged conduct has occurred. 

Upon receiving a written report of an allegation of criminal conduct from the department, the law enforcement agency shall review

the information in the written report to determine whether a criminal investigation is warranted. If the law enforcement agency

accepts the case for criminal investigation, it shall coordinate its investigative activities with the department, whenever feasible. If 

the law enforcement agency does not accept the case for criminal investigation, the agency shall notify the department in writing. 

Georgia

 Ga. Code Ann. § 19-7-5(e) (WESTLAW through 2000 Gen. Assem.) 

If a report of child abuse is made to the child welfare agency or independently discovered by the agency, and the agency has 

reasonable cause to believe such report is true or the report contains any allegation or evidence of child abuse, then the agency

shall immediately notify the appropriate police authority or district attorney. 

Guam

 Guam Code Ann. tit. 19, § 13203(b) (WESTLAW through 2003 P.L. 26-152) 

Child Protective Services shall immediately or as soon as practically possible report by telephone to the Guam Police Department 

and to the Attorney General's Office every known or suspected instance of child abuse, except acts or omissions coming under § 

13101(t)(4) [concerning neglect]. Child Protective Services shall also send a written report thereof within 48 hours of receiving

information concerning the incident to any agency to which it is required to make a telephone report. 

The Guam Police Department shall immediately or as soon as practically possible report by telephone to Child Protective Services 

and to the Attorney General's office every known or suspected instance of child abuse reported to it, except acts or omissions 

coming under § 13101(t)(4) [concerning neglect], which shall only be reported to Child Protective Services. However, the Guam 

Police Department shall report to Child Protective Services every known or suspected instance of child abuse reported to it that is 

alleged to have occurred as a result of the inaction of a person responsible for the child's welfare to adequately protect the minor 

from abuse when such person knew or reasonably should have known that the minor was in danger of abuse. The Guam Police 

Department shall also send a written report within 48 hours of receiving the information concerning the incident to any agency to 

which it is required to make a telephone report. 

Child Protective Services and the Guam Police Department shall immediately, or as soon as practically possible, report by

telephone to the appropriate Department of Defense Family Advocacy Program every known or suspected instance of child abuse 

reported to them when such report involves active duty military personnel or their dependents. 

Hawaii

 Haw. Rev. Stat. § 350-2(b)-(c) (WESTLAW through 1999 Reg. Sess.) 

The department shall inform the appropriate police department of all reports received by the department regarding a case of child 

abuse or neglect, including reports received under § 350-1.1, provided that the name of the person who reported the case of child

abuse or neglect shall be released to the police department pursuant only to court order or the person's consent. 

The Department of Human Services shall inform the appropriate police department or office of the prosecuting attorney of the 

relevant information concerning a case of child abuse or neglect when such information is required by the police department or the 

office of the prosecuting attorney for the investigation of that case; provided the name of the person who reported the case of child 

abuse or neglect shall only be released to a police department or an office of the prosecuting attorney pursuant to court order or the 

person's consent. 

 
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Haw. Rev. Stat. § 350-1.1(c) (WESTLAW through 2001 3rd Spec. Sess.) 

If a police department is the initiating agency, a written report shall be filed with the Department of Human Services for cases that 

the police take further action on or for active cases in the Department under this chapter. 

Idaho

 Idaho Code § 16-1605(1) (LexisNexis through 4-13-05) 

Any...[mandated reporter] or other person having reason to believe that a child under the age of 18 years has been abused, 

abandoned, or neglected or who observes the child being subjected to conditions or circumstances that would reasonably result in 

abuse, abandonment, or neglect shall report or cause to be reported within 24 hours such conditions or circumstances to the proper 

law enforcement agency or the department. The department shall be informed by law enforcement of any report made directly to it. 

Illinois

 325 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 5/7 (West, WESTLAW through 2003 Reg. Sess.) 

Reports made to the central register through the statewide, toll-free telephone number shall be immediately transmitted to the 

appropriate Child Protective Service Unit. The Department of Children and Family Services shall, within 24 hours, orally notify local

law enforcement personnel and the office of the State's Attorney of the involved county of the receipt of any report alleging: 

• The death of a child; 

• Serious injury to a child including, but not limited to, brain damage, skull fractures, subdural hematomas, and internal

injuries; 

• Torture of a child; 

• Malnutrition of a child; and 

• Sexual abuse to a child, including, but not limited to, sexual intercourse, sexual exploitation, sexual molestation, and 

sexually transmitted disease in a child age 12 and under. 

All oral reports made by the Department of Children and Family Services to local law enforcement personnel and the office of the 

State's Attorney of the involved county shall be confirmed in writing within 48 hours of the oral report. 

Indiana

 Ind. Code Ann. § 31-33-7-7 (LexisNexis through Ind. 2005 Legis. Serv., Act 529) 

When a law enforcement agency receives an initial report under the reporting law that a child may be a victim of child abuse or

neglect, the law enforcement agency shall: 

• Immediately communicate the report to the department, whether or not the law enforcement agency has reason to believe 

there exists an imminent danger to the child's health or welfare; and 

• Conduct an immediate, onsite investigation of the report along with the department whenever the law enforcement agency

has reason to believe that an offense has been committed. 

In all cases, the law enforcement agency shall forward any information, including copies of investigation reports, on incidents of 

cases in which a child may be a victim of child abuse or neglect, whether or not obtained under the reporting laws, to the 

department and the juvenile court. 

 Ind. Code Ann. § 31-33-7-5 (LexisNexis through Ind. 2005 Legis. Serv., Act 529) 

A copy of the written report of the department shall immediately be made available to: 

• The appropriate law enforcement agency; 

• The prosecuting attorney; and 

• In a case involving death, the coroner for the coroner's consideration. 
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Current Through July 2005 8 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

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Iowa

 Iowa Code Ann. § 232.70(4), (6), (7) (West, WESTLAW through End of 2002 2nd Ex. Sess.) 

Upon receipt of a report, the department shall do the following: 

• Immediately, upon receipt of an oral report, make a determination as to whether the report constitutes an allegation of 

child abuse; 

• Notify the appropriate county attorney of receipt of the report. 

If the report is made to any agency other than the Department of Human Services, such agency shall promptly refer the report to

the Department of Human Services. 

If a report would be determined to constitute an allegation of child abuse relating to a sexual offense with or to a child, except that 

the suspected abuse resulted from the acts or omissions of a person other than a person responsible for the care of the child, the 

department shall refer the report to the appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction to investigate the allegation, and 

refer the report orally as soon as practicable and in writing within 72 hours of receiving the report. 

Kansas

 Kan. Stat. Ann. § 38-1522(c), (e) (West, WESTLAW through 2002 Reg. Sess.) 

Except as provided below, reports made pursuant to this law shall be made to the State Department of Social and Rehabilitation 

Services. When the department is not open for business, the reports shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement agency. On

the next day that the department is open for business, the law enforcement agency shall report to the department any report 

received and investigation initiated. The reports may be made orally or, on request of the department, in writing. 

Reports of child abuse or neglect occurring in an institution operated by the Secretary of Social and Rehabilitation Services or the 

Commissioner of Juvenile Justice shall be made to the Attorney General. All other reports of child abuse or neglect by persons 

employed by or of children of persons employed by the State Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services or the Juvenile 

Justice Authority shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement agency. 

Kentucky

 Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 620.040(1)(c)-(d), (3) (LexisNexis through Ky. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch.99) 

The cabinet shall, within 72 hours, exclusive of weekends and holidays, make a written report to the Commonwealth's or county 

attorney and the local enforcement agency or Kentucky State Police concerning the action that has been taken on the investigation.

If the report alleges abuse or neglect by someone other than a parent, guardian, or person exercising custodial control or 

supervision, the cabinet shall immediately notify the Commonwealth's or county attorney and the local law enforcement agency or

Kentucky State Police. 

If the cabinet or its designated representative receives a report of abuse by a person other than a parent, guardian, or other person 

exercising custodial control or supervision of a child, it shall immediately notify the local law enforcement agency or Kentucky State 

Police and the Commonwealth's or county attorney of the receipt of the report and its contents, and they shall investigate the 

matter. The cabinet or its designated representative shall participate in an investigation of noncustodial physical abuse or neglect at 

the request of the local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky State Police. The cabinet shall participate in all investigations of 

reported or suspected sexual abuse of a child. 

 
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Current Through July 2005 9 

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Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 620.030(1), (3) (Michie Supp. 1998)

If the Cabinet for Children and Families receives a report of abuse or neglect allegedly committed by a person other than a parent, 

guardian, or person exercising custodial control or supervision, the cabinet shall refer that matter to the Commonwealth's attorney

or the county attorney and the local law enforcement agency or the Kentucky State Police. Nothing in this section shall relieve

individuals of their obligation to report. 

The Cabinet for Families and Children upon request shall receive from any agency of the State or any other agency, institution, or 

facility providing services to the child or his family, such cooperation, assistance, and information as will enable the Cabinet to fulfill 

its responsibilities under the law. 

Louisiana

 La. Children's Code art. 610(E) (LexisNexis through 6-16-05)

All reports made to any local or State law enforcement agency involving abuse or neglect in which the child's parent or caretaker, a 

person who maintains an interpersonal dating or engagement relationship with the parent or caretaker, or a person living in the

same residence with the parent or caretaker as a spouse, whether married or not, is believed responsible shall be promptly

communicated to the local child protection unit of the department in accordance with a written working agreement developed 

between the local law enforcement agency and child protection unit. 

A local child protection unit shall promptly communicate abuse or neglect cases not involving a parent, caretaker, or occupant of 

the household to the appropriate law enforcement agency in accordance with a written working agreement developed between the 

local child protection unit and law enforcement agency. The local child protection unit shall also report all cases of child death that 

involve a suspicion of abuse or neglect as a contributing factor in the child's death to the local or State law enforcement agencies, 

the office of the district attorney, and the coroner. 

Reports involving a felony-grade crime against a child shall be promptly communicated to the appropriate law enforcement 

authorities as part of the interagency protocols for multidisciplinary investigations of child abuse and neglect in each judicial district. 

Maine

 Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. tit. 22, § 4011-A(1), (2) (LexisNexis through 3-21-05) 

Persons [who are mandated by law to report] shall immediately report or cause a report to be made to the department when the 

person knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been or is likely to be abused or neglected. 

When, while acting in a professional capacity, any person required to report...knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a 

child has been abused or neglected by a person not responsible for the child, the person immediately shall report or cause a report 

to be made to the appropriate district attorney's office. 
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Maryland

 Md. Code Ann. Fam. Law § 5-704(b) (LexisNexis through 6-10-05) 

An individual who notifies the appropriate authorities under this section shall make: 

• An oral report, by telephone or direct communication, as soon as possible:

o To the local department or appropriate law enforcement agency if the person has reason to believe that the child 

has been subjected to abuse; or 

o To the local department if the person has reason to believe that the child has been subjected to neglect; and 

• A written report: 

o To the local department not later than 48 hours after the contact, examination, attention, or treatment that caused 

the individual to believe that the child had been subjected to abuse or neglect; and 

o With a copy to the local State's Attorney if the individual has reason to believe that the child has been subjected 

to abuse. 

An agency to which an oral report of suspected abuse is made shall immediately notify the other agency. This paragraph does not

prohibit a local Department of Social Services and an appropriate law enforcement agency from agreeing to cooperative 

arrangements. 

Massachusetts

 Mass. Gen. Laws Ann. ch. 119, § 51B(4) (West, WESTLAW through 2000 2nd Ann. Sess.) 

The Department of Social Services shall notify in writing the district attorney for the county in which the child resides and for the 

county in which the offense occurred by transmitting to such district attorney a copy of the report required under the reporting laws, 

if after an investigation and evaluation, the department has reasonable cause to believe that any of the following conditions has 

resulted from abuse or neglect; provided, however, that the department may immediately report cases of serious physical injury to 

the appropriate office of the district attorney: 

• A child has died; 

• A child has been sexually assaulted; 

• A child has suffered brain damage, loss or substantial impairment of a bodily function or organ, or substantial 

disfigurement; 

• A child has been sexually exploited, which shall mean encouraging a child to engage in prostitution or in the obscene or 

pornographic photographing, filming, or depicting of a child; 

• A child has suffered serious physical abuse or injury that includes, but is not limited to a fracture of any bone, severe burn,

impairment of any organ, or any other serious injury; 

• An injury requiring the child to be placed on life-support systems; 

• Any other disclosure of physical abuse involving physical evidence that may be destroyed;

• Any current disclosure by the child of sexual assault; or 

• The presence of physical evidence of sexual assault. 

The department shall forward to the local law enforcement authorities in the town in which the child resides and the town in which 

the offense occurred a copy of the report provided to the district attorney. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Michigan

 Mich. Comp. Laws Ann. § 722.623(b)(5)-(7) (West, WESTLAW through P.A. 2003, No. 6) 

Upon receipt of a written report of suspected child abuse or neglect, the department may provide copies to the prosecuting attorney

and the probate court of the counties in which the child suspected of being abused or neglected resides and is found. 

If an allegation, written report, or subsequent investigation of suspected child abuse or child neglect indicates a violation of the 

Michigan penal code, or if the allegation, written report or subsequent investigation indicates that the suspected child abuse or child 

neglect was committed by an individual who is not a person who is responsible for the child's health or welfare, including, but not 

limited to, a member of the clergy, a teacher, or a teacher's aide, the department shall transmit a copy of the allegation or written 

report and the results of any investigation to a law enforcement agency in the county in which the incident occurred. 

If a local law enforcement agency receives an allegation or written report of suspected child abuse or child neglect, and the 

allegation, written report, or subsequent investigation indicates that the child abuse or child neglect was committed by a person 

responsible for the child's health or welfare, the local law enforcement agency shall refer the allegation or provide a copy of the 

written report and the results of any investigation to the county family independence agency of the county in which the abused or 

neglected child is found. 

Minnesota

 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 626.556, Subd. 3 & 7 (LexisNexis through Minn. 2005 Legis. Serv., Law 136) 

The police department or the county sheriff, upon receiving a report, shall immediately notify the local welfare agency or agency

responsible for assessing or investigating the report, orally and in writing. The local welfare agency, or agency responsible for 

assessing or investigating the report, upon receiving a report, shall immediately notify the local police department or the county

sheriff orally and in writing. The county sheriff and the head of every local welfare agency, agency responsible for assessing or 

investigating the report, and police department shall each designate a person within their agency, department, or office who is

responsible for ensuring that the notification duties of this statute are carried out. 

Written reports received by a police department or the county sheriff shall be forwarded immediately to the local welfare agency or

the agency responsible for assessing or investigating the report. The police department or the county sheriff may keep copies of 

reports received by them. Copies of written reports received by a local welfare department or the agency responsible for assessing 

or investigating the report shall be forwarded immediately to the local police department or the county sheriff. 

 Minn. Stat. Ann. § 626.556, Subd. 10(a) (LexisNexis through Minn. 2005 Legis. Serv., Law 159) 

If the report alleges neglect, physical abuse, or sexual abuse by a parent, guardian, or individual functioning within the family unit

as a person responsible for the child's care, the local welfare agency shall immediately conduct a family assessment or 

investigation. In conducting a family assessment or investigation, the local welfare agency shall gather information on the existence 

of substance abuse and domestic violence and offer services for purposes of preventing future child maltreatment, safeguarding 

and enhancing the welfare of the abused or neglected minor, and supporting and preserving family life whenever possible. 

If the report alleges a violation of a criminal statute involving sexual abuse, physical abuse, or neglect or endangerment, the local 

law enforcement agency and local welfare agency shall coordinate the planning and execution of their respective investigation and

assessment efforts to avoid a duplication of fact-finding efforts and multiple interviews. Each agency shall prepare a separate report 

of the results of its investigation. In cases of alleged child maltreatment resulting in death, the local agency may rely on the factfinding efforts of a law enforcement investigation to make a determination of whether or not maltreatment occurred. When 

necessary the local welfare agency shall seek authority to remove the child from the custody of a parent, guardian, or adult with 

whom the child is living. In performing any of these duties, the local welfare agency shall maintain appropriate records. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Mississippi

 Miss. Code Ann. § 43-21-353(1), (8) (LexisNexis through 5-6-05)

The Department of Human Services shall immediately make a referral to the youth court intake unit, which unit shall promptly

comply with § 43-21-357. Where appropriate, the Department of Human Services shall additionally make a referral to the youth 

court prosecutor. Upon receiving a report that a child has been sexually abused, or burned, tortured, mutilated, or otherwise 

physically abused in such a manner as to cause serious bodily harm, or upon receiving any report of abuse that would be a felony 

under State or Federal law, the Department of Human Services shall immediately notify the law enforcement agency in whose 

jurisdiction the abuse occurred and shall notify the appropriate prosecutor within 48 hours. The Department of Human Services 

shall have the duty to provide the law enforcement agency all the names and facts known at the time of the report; this duty shall be 

of a continuing nature. 

If a report is made directly to the Department of Human Services that a child has been abused or neglected in an out-of-home 

setting, a referral shall be made immediately to the law enforcement agency in whose jurisdiction the abuse occurred and the 

Department shall the notify the district attorney's office within 48 hours of such report. 

Missouri

 Mo. Ann. Stat. § 210.145(4), (5), (10) (LexisNexis through 5-10-05) 

The local office shall contact the appropriate law enforcement agency immediately upon receipt of a report that division personnel 

determine merits an investigation and provide such agency with a detailed description of the report received. In such cases the

local division office shall request the assistance of the local law enforcement agency in all aspects of the investigation of the 

complaint. The appropriate law enforcement agency shall either assist the division in the investigation or provide the division, within 

24 hours, an explanation in writing detailing the reasons why it is unable to assist. 

The local office of the division shall cause an investigation or family assessment and services approach to be initiated in

accordance with the protocols established in § 210.145(2), except in cases where the sole basis for the report is educational 

neglect.... If the report indicates the child is in danger of serious physical harm or threat to life, an investigation shall include direct 

observation of the subject child within 24 hours of the receipt of the report. Local law enforcement shall take all necessary steps to 

facilitate such direct observation. 

Multidisciplinary teams shall be used whenever conducting the investigation as determined by the division in conjunction with local 

law enforcement. Multidisciplinary teams shall be used in providing protective or preventive social services, including the services 

of law enforcement, a liaison of the local public school, the juvenile officer, the juvenile court, and other agencies, both public and 

private. 

Montana

 Mont. Code Ann. § 41-3-202(1) (LexisNexis through Mont. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 382) 

Upon receipt of a report, as required by the reporting laws, that a child is or has been abused or neglected, the department shall 

promptly assess the information contained in the report and make a determination regarding the level of response required and the 

timeframe within which action must be initiated. If the department determines that an investigation is required, a social worker, the 

county attorney, or a peace officer shall promptly conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the 

allegations of abuse or neglect of the child. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Nebraska 

 Neb. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 28-711 (LexisNexis through Neb. 2005 Legis. Serv., Law 116) 

Law enforcement agencies receiving any reports of child abuse or neglect under this subsection shall notify the department on the 

next working day by phone or mail. 

The Department of Health and Human Services shall establish a statewide toll-free number to be used by any person any hour of 

the day or night, any day of the week, to make reports of child abuse or neglect. Reports of child abuse or neglect not previously

made to or by a law enforcement agency shall be made immediately to such agency by the department. 

 Neb. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 28-713(1), (4), (5) (LexisNexis through Neb. 2005 Legis. Serv., Law 116) 

Upon the receipt of a call reporting child abuse and neglect, it is the duty of the law enforcement agency to investigate the report, to 

take immediate steps to protect the child, and to institute legal proceedings if appropriate. In situations of alleged out-of-home child 

abuse or neglect, if the person or persons to be notified have not already been notified and the person to be notified is not the 

subject of the report of child abuse or neglect, the law enforcement agency shall immediately notify the person or persons having 

custody of each child who has allegedly been abused or neglected that such report of alleged child abuse or neglect has been 

made and shall provide such person or persons with information of the nature of the alleged child abuse or neglect. The law

enforcement agency may request assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services during the investigation and 

shall, by the next working day, notify either the hotline or the department of receipt of the report, including whether or not an 

investigation is being undertaken by the law enforcement agency. A copy of all reports, whether or not an investigation is being 

undertaken, shall be provided to the department. 

The department shall, by the next working day after receiving a report of child abuse or neglect, make a written report or a 

summary on forms provided by the department to the proper law enforcement agency in the county and enter in the tracking 

system of child protection cases maintained pursuant to § 28-715 all reports of child abuse or neglect opened for investigation and 

any action taken. 

The department shall, upon request, make available to the appropriate investigating law enforcement agency and the county 

attorney a copy of all reports relative to a case of suspected child abuse or neglect. 

Nevada

 Nev. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 432B.260(1), (9) (LexisNexis through Nev. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 442 & 445) 

Upon the receipt of a report concerning the possible abuse or neglect of a child, an agency that provides child welfare services or a 

law enforcement agency shall promptly notify the appropriate licensing authority, if any. A law enforcement agency shall promptly

notify an agency that provides child welfare services of any report it receives. 

An agency that provides child welfare services and a law enforcement agency shall cooperate in the investigation, if any, of a report 

of abuse or neglect of a child. 

New Hampshire

 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 169-C:38 (I)-(II) (LexisNexis through 2004 Sess.) 

The Department of Health and Human Services shall immediately, by telephone or in person, refer all cases in which there is 

reason to believe that any person under the age of 18 years has been (a) sexually molested; (b) sexually exploited; (c) intentionally

physically injured so as to cause serious bodily injury; (d) physically injured by other than accidental means so as to cause serious 

bodily injury; or (e) a victim of a crime, to the local law enforcement agency in the community in which the acts of abuse are 

believed to have occurred. The department shall also make a written report to the law enforcement agency within 48 hours, 

Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays excluded. A copy of this report shall be sent to the office of the county attorney. 

All law enforcement personnel and department employees shall cooperate in limiting the number of interviews of a child victim and, 

when appropriate, shall conduct joint interviews of the child. Employees of the department shall share with the investigating police 

officers all information in their possession which it is lawful for them to disclose to a law enforcement agency. Investigating police 

officers shall not use or reveal any confidential information shared with them by the department except to the extent necessary for

the investigation and prosecution of the case. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

 N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 169-C:38-a (West, WESTLAW through End of 2002 Reg. Sess.) 

The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Justice shall jointly develop a standardized protocol for the

interviewing of victims and the investigation and assessment of cases of child abuse and neglect. The protocol shall seek to 

minimize the impact on the victim. The protocol shall also be designed to protect the rights of all parties affected. The protocol shall 

specifically address the need to establish safe and appropriate places for interviewing children. 

New Jersey

 N.J. Stat. Ann. § 9:6-8.10a(e) (LexisNexis through 6-30-05) 

For incidents determined by the department to be substantiated, the department shall forward to the police or law enforcement 

agency in whose jurisdiction the child named in the report resides, the identity of persons alleged to have committed child abuse or

neglect and of victims of child abuse or neglect, their addresses, the nature of the allegations, and other relevant information, 

including, but not limited to, prior reports of abuse or neglect and names of siblings obtained by the department during its 

investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect. The police or law enforcement agency shall keep such information confidential. 

 N.J. Stat. Ann. § 9:6-8.11 (LexisNexis through 6-30-05)

Upon receipt of any such report, the Division of Youth and Family Services, or such another entity in the Department of Human 

Services as may be designated by the Commissioner of Human Services to investigate child abuse or neglect, shall immediately 

take such action as shall be necessary to insure the safety of the child and to that end may request and shall receive appropriate 

assistance from local and State law enforcement officials. 

A representative of the division or other designated entity shall initiate an investigation within 24 hours of receipt of the report, 

unless the division or other entity authorizes a delay based upon the request of a law enforcement official. The division or other 

entity shall also, within 72 hours, forward a report of such matter to the child abuse registry operated by the division in Trenton. 

New Mexico

 N.M. Stat. Ann. § 32A-4-3(B) (LexisNexis through N.M. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 189) 

Any law enforcement agency receiving the report shall immediately transmit the facts of the report and the name, address, and 

phone number of the reporter by telephone to the [Children, Youth and Families] Department and shall transmit the same 

information in writing within 48 hours. 

The department shall immediately transmit the facts of the report and the name, address, and phone number of the reporter by

telephone to a local law enforcement agency and shall transmit the same information in writing within 48 hours. 

New York

 N.Y. Soc. Serv. Law § 423(1)(e), (6) (West, WESTLAW through L. 2000)

Except as provided by law, the child protective service shall be the sole public agency responsible for receiving and investigating or 

arranging with the appropriate society for the prevention of cruelty to children to investigate all reports of child abuse or 

maltreatment made pursuant to law for the purpose of providing protective services to prevent further abuses or maltreatment to

children and to coordinate, provide or arrange for, or monitor the provision of those services necessary to safeguard and ensure the 

child's well-being and development and to preserve and stabilize family life wherever appropriate. 

A social services district may establish a multidisciplinary investigative team or teams, at a local or regional level, for the purpose of 

investigating reports of suspected child abuse or maltreatment. The social services district shall have discretion with regard to the 

category or categories of suspected child abuse or maltreatment such team or teams may investigate, provided, however, the 

social services district shall place particular emphasis on cases involving the serious abuse of children. A multidisciplinary

investigative team may include, but is not limited to, representatives from the child protective service, office of the district attorney

or local law enforcement, the medical profession, public health agencies, mental health agencies, schools and medical facilities, 

including hospitals or other appropriate agencies or institutions, and personnel of any existing child advocacy centers. 

Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, members of a multidisciplinary investigative team may share with other 

team members client-identifiable information concerning the child or the child's family. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

North Carolina

 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-307(a) (LexisNexis through N.C. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 55) 

If the director of the Department of Social Services finds evidence that a juvenile may have been abused, the director shall make an 

immediate oral and subsequent written report of the findings to the district attorney or the district attorney's designee and the 

appropriate local law enforcement agency within 48 hours after the receipt of the report. 

The local law enforcement agency shall immediately, but no later than 48 hours after receipt of a report of abuse, initiate and

coordinate a criminal investigation with the protective services assessment being conducted by the county Department of Social 

Services. Upon completion of the investigation, the district attorney shall determine whether criminal prosecution is appropriate and 

may request the director or the director's designee to appear before a magistrate. 

If the director of the Department of Social Services receives information that a juvenile may have been physically harmed in 

violation of any criminal statute by any person other than the juvenile's parent, guardian, custodian, or caretaker, the director shall 

make an immediate oral report and subsequent written report of that information to the district attorney or the district attorney's 

designee and to the appropriate local law enforcement agency within 48 hours after receipt of the information. 

The local law enforcement agency shall immediately, but no later than 48 hours after receipt of the information, initiate a criminal 

investigation. Upon completion of the investigation, the district attorney shall determine whether criminal prosecution is appropriate. 

 N.C. Gen. Stat. § 7B-301 (LexisNexis through N.C. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 55) 

Upon receipt of any report of sexual abuse of the juvenile in a childcare facility, the director of the Department of Social Services 

shall notify the State Bureau of Investigation within 24 hours or on the next workday. If sexual abuse in a childcare facility is not 

alleged in the initial report, but during the course of the assessment there is reason to suspect that sexual abuse has occurred, the 

director shall immediately notify the State Bureau of Investigation. Upon notification that sexual abuse may have occurred in a

childcare facility, the State Bureau of Investigation may form a task force to investigate the report. 

North Dakota

 N.D. Cent. Code § 50-25.1-05 (LexisNexis through N.D. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 434)

The department, in accordance with rules adopted by the Department, immediately shall initiate an assessment, or cause an 

assessment, of any report of child abuse or neglect including, when appropriate, the assessment of the home or the residence of

the child, any school or childcare facility attended by the child, and the circumstances surrounding the report of abuse or neglect. If 

the report alleges a violation of a criminal statute involving sexual or physical abuse, the department and an appropriate law

enforcement agency shall coordinate the planning and execution of their investigation efforts to avoid a duplication of factfinding 

efforts and multiple interviews. 

The department or the law enforcement agency may refer the case to a children’s advocacy center for a forensic interview, forensic 

medical examination, and other services. 

Northern Mariana Islands

 NMI Commonwealth Code tit. 6, § 5313(b) (2001) 

The Department of Public Safety shall promptly notify the office of the Attorney General and the Division of Youth Services of all 

reported cases of child abuse, neglect, and sexual molestation. This notification shall be within 24 hours.
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Current Through July 2005 16 

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Ohio

 Ohio Rev. Code Ann. § 2151.421(D) (LexisNexis through 6-29-05)) 

When a municipal or county peace officer receives a report concerning the possible abuse or neglect of a child or the possible 

threat of abuse or neglect of a child, upon receipt of the report, the municipal or county peace officer who receives the report shall 

refer the report to the appropriate public children services agency. 

When a public children services agency receives a report pursuant to this division or division (A) or (B) of this section, upon receipt 

of the report, the public children services agency shall do both of the following: 

• It shall comply with § 2151. 422 [concerning procedures to follow if the child is living in a domestic violence or homeless 

shelter]. 

• If the county served by the agency is also served by a children's advocacy center and the report alleges sexual abuse of a 

child or another type of abuse of a child that is specified in the memorandum of understanding that creates the center as 

being within the center's jurisdiction, the agency shall comply regarding the report with the protocol and procedures for 

referrals and investigations, with the coordinating activities, and with the authority or responsibility for performing or 

providing functions, activities, and services stipulated in the interagency agreement entered into under § 2151.428 relative 

to that center. 

 Ohio Rev. Code Ann, § 2151.428(F) (LexisNexis through 6-29-05) 

Except as provided by statute or in an interagency agreement entered into under § 2151.428 that applies to the particular report, 

the public children services agency shall investigate, within 24 hours, each report of known or suspected child abuse or child 

neglect and of a known or suspected threat of child abuse or child neglect that is referred to it to determine the circumstances 

surrounding the injuries, abuse, or neglect or the threat of injury, abuse, or neglect, the cause of the injuries, abuse, neglect, or 

threat, and the person or persons responsible. The investigation shall be made in cooperation with the law enforcement agency and 

in accordance with the memorandum of understanding prepared under § 2151.428(J). A representative of the public children 

services agency shall, at the time of initial contact with the person subject to the investigation, inform the person of the specific 

complaints or allegations made against the person. The information shall be given in a manner that is consistent with § 

2151.428(H)(1) and protects the rights of the person making the report. 

The public children services agency shall report each case to a central registry that the Department of Job and Family Services

shall maintain in order to determine whether prior reports have been made in other counties concerning the child or other principals 

in the case. The public children services agency shall submit a report of its investigation, in writing, to the law enforcement agency. 

The public children services agency shall make any recommendations to the county prosecuting attorney or city director of law that 

it considers necessary to protect any children that are brought to its attention. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Oklahoma

 Okla. Stat. Ann. tit. 10, § 7003-1.1(B) (LexisNexis through 2004 Sess.) 

If, after the assessment or investigation, the department determines that: 

• An alleged abuse or neglect of a child was perpetrated by someone other than a person responsible for the child's health, 

safety, or welfare, and 

• An alleged abuse or neglect of a child does not appear to be attributable to failure on the part of a person responsible for

the child's health, safety, or welfare to provide protection for the child, 

the Department shall immediately verbally notify an appropriate local law enforcement agency for the purpose of conducting a 

possible criminal investigation. The verbal notification to the local law enforcement agency shall be followed by a written referral 

transmitted no later than the close of the next business day. 

The department shall determine whether the alleged perpetrator is a parent of any child or is otherwise a person responsible for the 

child's health, safety, or welfare. If the alleged perpetrator is determined to be a parent of a child or is otherwise a person

responsible for the child's health, safety, or welfare, such determination shall constitute reasonable grounds to conduct an 

assessment or investigation regarding such child. 

After making the referral to the law enforcement agency, the department shall not be responsible for further investigation of the 

case unless: 

• A notice is received from the law enforcement agency; 

• The alleged perpetrator is a person responsible for the child's health, safety, or welfare; or

• The appropriate law enforcement agency requests the department, in writing, to participate in the investigation. If funds 

and personnel are available, as determined by the Director of Human Services, the department may assist in the 

investigation of physical or sexual abuse of a child perpetrated by a person other than the parent or person responsible for 

the health, safety, or welfare of the child. 

 Okla. Stat. Ann. Tit. 10, § 7003-1.1(C) (LexisNexis through 2004 Sess.) 

Any law enforcement agency receiving a referral as provided in this section shall provide the Department of Human Services' local 

child welfare office with a copy of the report of its investigation resulting from a referral from the department or shall provide a 

written statement as to why a criminal investigation was not conducted. 

Whenever, in the course of any criminal investigation, a law enforcement agency determines that there is cause to believe that a 

child may be or is alleged to be abused, neglected, or deprived by reason of the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the 

health, safety, or welfare of the child or the failure on the part of a person responsible for the child's health, safety, or welfare to 

provide protection for the child, the law enforcement agency shall immediately verbally contact the local child welfare office for the 

purpose of an investigation by that office. 

The verbal notification to the local child welfare office shall be followed by a written referral to the Department of Human Services 

no later than the close of the next business day. 

Oregon

 Or. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 419B.015(1)(B), (2) (LexisNexis through Or. 2005 Legis. Serv., S.B. 94) 

When a report of child abuse is received by the department, the department shall notify a law enforcement agency within the county

where the report was made. When a report of child abuse is received by a designee of the department, the designee shall notify,

according to the contract, either the department or a law enforcement agency within the county where the report was made. When 

a report of child abuse is received by a law enforcement agency, the agency shall notify the local office of the department within the 

county where the report was made. 

When a report of child abuse is received under § 419B.015(1)(A), the entity receiving the report shall make the notification required

by the subsection above according to rules adopted by the department. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Pennsylvania

 23 Pa. Cons. Stat. Ann. § 6365(c) (West, WESTLAW through Act 2002-237) 

The county agency and the district attorney shall develop a protocol for the convening of investigative teams for any case of child 

abuse involving crimes against children that are set forth in § 6340(a)(9) and (10) (relating to release of information in confidential 

reports). The county protocol shall include standards and procedures to be used in receiving and referring reports and coordinating 

investigations of reported cases of child abuse and a system for sharing the information obtained as a result of any interview. The 

protocol shall include any other standards and procedures to avoid duplication of fact-finding efforts and interviews to minimize the 

trauma to the child. 

The district attorney shall convene an investigative team in accordance with the protocol. The investigative team shall consist of 

those individuals and agencies responsible for investigating the abuse or for providing services to the child and shall at minimum 

include a health care provider, county caseworker, and law enforcement official. 

Puerto Rico

 P.R. Laws Ann. tit. 8, § 442h (LexisNexis through Dec. 2002) 

For the purposes of this chapter, the regional and local offices and the operational components of the department, as well as the 

agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico, shall be bound to give priority to the situations of abuse, institutional abuse, abuse

through neglect, and/or abuse through institutional neglect of minors and shall coordinate their efforts when rendering services 

related to the identification, prevention, or treatment of minor victims of abuse, institutional abuse, abuse through neglect, and/or 

abuse through institutional neglect. 

The department shall seek the cooperation of public, private, and privatized entities as well as of organizations and programs that 

in some way provide services related to the identification, prevention, or treatment of minor victims of abuse, institutional abuse, 

abuse through neglect, and/or abuse through institutional neglect. Agency coordination shall include joint planning, public education 

and information services, the use of each other's facilities, joint training and activities for the development of the personnel, 

evaluation, and management of the cases. 

Rhode Island

 R. I. Gen. Laws § 40-11-7(f) (1997) 

In the event that after investigation the department has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to

criminal abuse or neglect, the department shall forward immediately any information as it relates to that knowledge or suspicion to 

the law enforcement agency.

 R. I. Gen. Laws § 40-11-9 (1997) 

Upon the receipt of a report concerning the alleged abuse or neglect of a child, it shall be the duty of the law enforcement agency to 

investigate further and to report the results of the investigation to the department and/or family court; provided, however, if there is 

reasonable cause to believe that a crime has been committed the law enforcement agency shall report the result of the 

investigation to the department of attorney general. 
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However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

South Carolina

 S.C. Code Ann. § 20-7-510(D), (E) (LexisNexis through 6-27-05) 

Where reports are made pursuant to this section to a law enforcement agency, the law enforcement agency shall notify the county

Department of Social Services of the law enforcement's response to the report at the earliest possible time. 

Where a county or contiguous counties have established multicounty child protective services, the county Department of Social 

Services immediately shall transfer reports pursuant to this section to the service. 

When the department refers a report to a law enforcement agency for a criminal investigation, the department must inform the law 

enforcement agency of the identity of the person who reported the child abuse or neglect. The identity of the reporter must only be 

used by the law enforcement agency to further the criminal investigation arising from the report, and the agency must not disclose 

the reporter's identity to any person other than an employee of the agency who is involved in the criminal investigation arising from 

the report. If the reporter testifies in a criminal proceeding arising from the report, it must not be disclosed that the reporter made 

the report. 

When a law enforcement agency refers a report to the department for an investigation or other response, the law enforcement 

agency must inform the department of the identity of the person who reported the child abuse or neglect. The department must not 

disclose the identity of the reporter to any person except as authorized by law. 

South Dakota

 S.D. Codified Laws § 26-8A-8 (LexisNexis through 2005 Sess.) 

The reports required from mandated reporters by the reporting laws shall be made orally and immediately by telephone or 

otherwise to the State's attorney of the county in which the child resides or is present, to the Department of Social Services, or to 

law enforcement officers. 

The State's attorney or law enforcement officers, upon receiving a report, shall immediately notify the Department of Social 

Services. Any person receiving a report of suspected child abuse or child neglect shall keep the report confidential as provided by

statute. 

Tennessee

 Tenn. Code Ann. § 37-1-605(b)(2) (West, WESTLAW through End of 2001 1st Reg. Sess.) 

If a law enforcement official or judge becomes aware of known or suspected child sexual abuse, through personal knowledge, 

receipt of a report, or otherwise, such information shall be reported to the Department of Children's Services immediately, and the 

child protective team shall be notified to investigate the report for the protection of the child in accordance with the provisions of this 

part. Further criminal investigation by such official shall be appropriately conducted. 

 Tenn. Code Ann. § 37-1-403(d)(1) (LexisNexis through Tenn. 2005 Legis. Serv., Ch. 437) 

If a law enforcement official or judge becomes aware of known or suspected child abuse, through personal knowledge, receipt of a 

report, or otherwise, such information shall be reported to the Department of Children's Services immediately and, where 

appropriate, the child protective team shall be notified to investigate the report for the protection of the child in accordance with the 

provisions of this part. Further criminal investigation by such official shall be appropriately conducted in coordination with the team 

or department to the maximum extent possible. 

 
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This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Tenn. Code Ann. § 37-1-405(a), (b)(1)-(2) (1996) 

All cases reported to the juvenile court judge or to State or local law enforcement officers shall be referred immediately to the local 

director of the county office of the Department of Children's Services for investigation. 

If the court or law enforcement officer finds that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the child is suffering from illness or 

injury or is in immediate danger from the child's surroundings and that the child's removal is necessary, appropriate protective 

action shall be taken. 

The county office of the Department of Children's Services or the office of the sheriff or the chief law enforcement official of the 

municipality where the child resides, upon receipt of a report of harm or sexual abuse, shall give notice of the report to the judge 

having juvenile jurisdiction where the child resides. 

If the case appears to involve severe child abuse, including child sexual abuse, the county director of the Department of Children's 

Services shall immediately notify and consult with the district attorney general where the harm occurred, and the district attorney

general may take such action as the district attorney general deems appropriate, including petitioning the court for removal of the 

child or termination of parental rights. 

Texas

 Tex. Fam. Code Ann. § 261.105 (LexisNexis through 6-2-05) 

All reports received by a local or State law enforcement agency that allege abuse or neglect by a person responsible for a child's 

care, custody, or welfare shall be referred immediately to the department or the designated agency.

The department or designated agency shall immediately notify the appropriate State or local law enforcement agency of any report 

it receives, other than a report from a law enforcement agency, that concerns the suspected abuse or neglect of a child or death of 

a child from abuse or neglect. 

In addition to notifying a law enforcement agency, if the report relates to a child in a facility operated, licensed, certified, or 

registered by a State agency, the department shall refer the report to the agency for investigation. 

If the department initiates an investigation and determines that the abuse or neglect does not involve a person responsible for the 

child's care, custody, or welfare, the department shall refer the report to a law enforcement agency for further investigation. If the 

department determines that the abuse or neglect involves an employee of a public primary or secondary school, and that the child 

is a student at the school, the department shall orally notify the superintendent of the school district in which the employee is 

employed about the investigation. 

In cooperation with the department, the Texas Youth Commission by rule shall adopt guidelines for identifying a report made to the 

commission that is appropriate to refer to the department or a law enforcement agency for investigation. Guidelines adopted under 

this subsection must require the commission to consider the severity and immediacy of the alleged abuse or neglect of the child

victim. 

 Tex. Fam. Code Ann. § 261.1055 (West Supp. 1999) 

A district attorney may inform the department or designated agency that the district attorney wishes to receive notification of some 

or all reports of suspected abuse or neglect of children who were in the county at the time the report was made or who were in the 

county at the time of the alleged abuse or neglect. 

If the district attorney makes the notification under this section, the department or designated agency shall, on receipt of a report of 

suspected abuse or neglect, immediately notify the district attorney as requested, and the department or designated agency shall 

forward a copy of the reports to the district attorney on request. 
Cross-Reporting Among Responders to Child Abuse and Neglect http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov

Current Through July 2005 21 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Utah

 Utah Code Ann. § 62A-4a-403(1) (WESTLAW through 2001 1st Sp. Sess.) 

On receipt of this notice [of suspected child abuse or neglect], the peace officer or law enforcement agency shall immediately notify

the nearest office of the Division of Child and Family Services. 

If an initial report of child abuse or neglect is made to the division, the division shall immediately notify the appropriate local law

enforcement agency. The division shall, in addition to its own investigation, comply with and lend support to investigations by law

enforcement undertaken pursuant to a report made under the reporting laws. 

Vermont

 Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 33, § 4918(a) (WESTLAW through 2000 Reg. Sess.) 

Multidisciplinary teams shall assist local district offices of the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services in identifying and 

treating child abuse and neglect cases. With respect to any case referred to it, the team shall assist the district office by providing: 

• Case diagnosis or identification 

• A comprehensive treatment plan 

• Coordination of services pursuant to the treatment plan

Virgin Islands

 V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 2536(f) (WESTLAW through 2002 Sess.) 

The U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department (V.I.P.D.) shall, on its own initiative where appropriate or at the request of the 

Department of Social Welfare, investigate reports of alleged child abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect, and shall convey the results of 

such investigation to the Department of Social Welfare and, where a petition or complaint has been filed, to the Territorial Court. If 

the report of child abuse or neglect involves the acts or omissions of the Department of Social Welfare, the V.I.P.D. shall investigate 

such report and shall convey the results of such report to the Department of Law, which shall take appropriate action. 

 V.I. Code Ann. tit. 5, § 2534(a) (WESTLAW through 2002 Sess.) 

Reports of child abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect made pursuant to the reporting laws shall be made immediately by telephone or 

otherwise to the U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department (V.I.P.D.) or to the Department of Social Welfare. The V.I.P.D. shall relay 

such reports to the Department of Social Welfare immediately or, at the latest, at the commencement of the next regular office 

hours of the Department of Social Welfare. At the request of the Department of Social Welfare, an oral report shall be followed by a

written report within 48 hours. 

Virginia

 Va. Code Ann. § 63.2-1507 (West, WESTLAW through End of 2002 Reg. Sess.) 

All law enforcement departments and other State and local departments, agencies, authorities, and institutions shall cooperate with

each child-protective services coordinator of a local department and any multi-discipline teams in the detection and prevention of 

child abuse. 
Cross-Reporting Among Responders to Child Abuse and Neglect http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov

Current Through July 2005 22 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Washington

 Wash. Rev. Code Ann. § 26.44.030(4), (5) (LexisNexis through 4-5-05)

The department, upon receiving a report of an incident of alleged abuse or neglect involving a child who has died, has had physical 

injury or injuries inflicted upon him or her other than by accidental means, or who has been subjected to alleged sexual abuse shall 

report such incident to the proper law enforcement agency. In emergency cases, where the child's welfare is endangered, the 

department shall notify the proper law enforcement agency within 24 hours after a report is received by the department. In all other 

cases, the department shall notify the law enforcement agency within 72 hours after a report is received by the department. If the 

department makes an oral report, a written report shall also be made to the proper law enforcement agency within 5 days 

thereafter. 

Any law enforcement agency receiving a report of an incident of alleged abuse or neglect involving a child who has died, has had 

physical injury or injuries inflicted upon him or her other than by accidental means, or who has been subjected to alleged sexual 

abuse shall report such incident in writing as to the proper county prosecutor or city attorney for appropriate action whenever the 

law enforcement agency's investigation reveals that a crime may have been committed. The law enforcement agency shall also 

notify the department of all reports received and the law enforcement agency's disposition of them. In emergency cases, where the 

child's welfare is endangered, the law enforcement agency shall notify the department within 24 hours. In all other cases, the law

enforcement agency shall notify the department within 72 hours after a report is received by the law enforcement agency. 

West Virginia

 W. Va. Code Ann. § 49-6A-5 (LexisNexis through 5-27-05) 

A copy of any report of serious physical abuse, sexual abuse, or assault shall be forwarded by the department to the appropriate 

law enforcement agency, the prosecuting attorney, or the coroner or medical examiner's office. 

Wisconsin

 Wis. Stat. Ann. § 48.981(3)(a) (LexisNexis through 5-11-05) 

The sheriff or police department shall within 12 hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays, refer to the county

department or, in a county having a population of 500,000 or more, the department or a licensed child welfare agency under 

contract with the department, all cases reported to it. The county department, department, or licensed child welfare agency may

require that a subsequent report be made in writing. 

A county department, the department, or licensed child welfare agency under contract with the department shall within 12 hours,

exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays, refer to the sheriff or police department all cases of suspected or threatened 

abuse reported to it. For cases of suspected or threatened abuse or neglect, each county department, the department, and a 

licensed child welfare agency under contract with the department shall adopt a written policy specifying the kinds of reports it will 

routinely report to local law enforcement authorities. 

If the report is of suspected or threatened abuse, the sheriff or police department and the county department, the department, or 

licensed child welfare agency under contract with the department shall coordinate the planning and execution of the investigation of 

the report. 

 
Cross-Reporting Among Responders to Child Abuse and Neglect http://nccanch.acf.hhs.gov

Current Through July 2005 23 

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. 

However, when doing so, please credit the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information. 

Wis. Stat. Ann. § 48.981(3)(bm) (LexisNexis through 5-11-05) 

In a county that has wholly or partially within its boundaries a federally recognized Indian reservation or a bureau of Indian affairs 

service area for the Ho-Chunk tribe, if a county department that receives a report pertaining to a child or unborn child knows that 

the child is an Indian child who resides in the county or that the unborn child is an Indian unborn child whose expectant mother 

resides in the county, the county department shall provide notice that shall consist only of the name and address of the child or 

expectant mother and the fact that a report has been received about that child or unborn child, within 24 hours to one of the 

following: 

• If the county department knows with which tribe or band the child is affiliated, or with which tribe or band the unborn child, 

when born, may be eligible for affiliation, and it is a Wisconsin tribe or band, the tribal agent of that tribe or band. 

• If the county department does not know with which tribe or band the child is affiliated, or with which tribe or band the 

unborn child, when born, may be eligible for affiliation, or the child or expectant mother is not affiliated with a Wisconsin

tribe or band, the tribal agent serving the reservation or Ho-Chunk service area where the child or expectant mother 

resides. 

• If neither [of the above] applies, any tribal agent serving a reservation or Ho-Chunk service area in the county. 

Wyoming

 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 14-3-204(a)(vii)-(viii) (LexisNexis through 3-1-05)

The local child protective agency shall cooperate, coordinate and assist with the prosecution and law enforcement agencies in

investigating a report of suspected child abuse or neglect. When the best interests of the child requires court actions, the agency 

shall contact the county and prosecuting attorney to initiate legal proceedings and assist the county and prosecuting attorney during

the proceedings. 

 Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 14-3-206(a) (LexisNexis through 3-1-05) 

Reports of child abuse or neglect or of suspected child abuse or neglect made to the local child protective agency or local law

enforcement agency shall be conveyed immediately by the agency receiving the report to the appropriate local child protective 

agency or local law enforcement agency. The agencies shall continue cooperating and coordinating with each other during the 

investigation.