(1) Does the state require everyone to report child abuse, including sex abuse? Almost. “Any person . . . who has responsibility for the care or treatment” of a minor must report abuse.
(2) Does the law require coaches to report child abuse? Yes. The law requires “school personnel” to report, though that term is probably not broad enough to cover coaches who work outside elementary, middle, or high schools. Coaches at other levels are likely covered under the broader definition cited above which requires a person responsible for the “care or treatment” of a child to report.
(3) Does the law require college staff to report child abuse? Yes. Though the law is not explicit, college employees are likely covered under the broader definition above which requires a person responsible for the “care or treatment” of a child to report.
(4) Does the law allow jail time for those who fail to properly report abuse? Yes. Depending on other factors, the penalty is either a Class 1 Misdemeanor or a Class 6 Felony. The penalty for the latter is between one-third of a year and two years in jail or prison.
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