(1) Does the state require everyone to report child abuse, including sex abuse? No.
(2) Does the law require coaches to report child abuse? Yes, but only if they serve in a supervisory capacity and their subordinates are accused of abuse.
(3) Does the law require college staff to report child abuse? Yes, in some situations. College employees who supervise alleged abusers are required to report the allegations in their capacity as supervisors. “Professional school personnel” are required to report, but college employees are not included in the definition of “school personnel.” The term appears to apply to K-12 employees only.
(4) Does the law allow jail time for those who fail to properly report abuse? Yes; failing to report is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and up to a $5,000 fine.
Notes: State law imposes a duty to report on administrators or organizations who find out their subordinates are accused of abuse.
This is an analysis for Washington State. For Washington, D.C., click here.
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