Individuals Typically Mandated to Report Individuals typically designated as mandatory reporters have frequent contact with children. Some States also mandate animal control officers, veterinarians, commercial film or photograph processors, substance abuse counselors, and firefighters to report abuse or neglect. Approximately 1 eighteen States require all citizens to report suspected abuse or neglect regardless of profession. Typically a report must be made when the reporter suspects or has reasons to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected. Categories Approximately twenty-six States specify when a communication is privileged.
Privileged communications are exempt from mandatory reporting laws.
The privilege most widely recognized by the States is that of attorney-client. The privilege pertaining to clergy-penitent also is frequently recognized. For example, when a priest becomes aware of child abuse through confessions or in the capacity of spiritual advisor, he is not required to report. This summary is a product of the State Statutes Project , a partnership between the National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information and the National Center for Prosecution of Child Abuse. The Clearinghouse is supported by the Children's Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.