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Here Are The Mandatory Reporting Laws In Kansas

 

Kansas

(1) Does the state require everyone to report child abuse, including sex abuse?  No.

(2) Does the law require coaches to report child abuse? Not explicitly, unless they are employed by a local school or other “educational institution.” Volunteer coaches, and coaches outside educational settings probably do not have to report.

(3) Does the law require college staff to report child abuse? Arguably, yes, but the law is more vague than in other states on this matter. School teachers, administrators, and “other employees of an educational institution” are required to report, so long as the victimized “child is attending” the institution. College employees would, arguably, be part of an “educational institution,” but they would be required to report only cases of abuse involving a child “attending” the institution. Deciding who is and who is not an “attending” child may be difficult, though, as the word could be construed several ways. For instance, it could involve any child present at the institution. It could be limited to mean any child present for a program and who is paying a fee to be allowed access. It could be limited to only mean students of an institution as a whole, and not just showing up for coaching sessions. It could also be limited to enrolled students, though that narrow of a definition seems unlikely. An attempt to convict a college staff member would center on these questions and might be troublesome for a prosecutor.

(4) Does the law allow jail time for those who fail to properly report abuse? Yes; the penalty is a Class B Misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.

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Aaron Keller holds a juris doctor degree from the University of New Hampshire School of Law and a broadcast journalism degree from Syracuse University. He is a former anchor and executive producer for the Law&Crime Network and is now deputy editor-in-chief for the Law&Crime website. DISCLAIMER:  This website is for general informational purposes only. You should not rely on it for legal advice. Reading this site or interacting with the author via this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. This website is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Speak to a competent lawyer in your jurisdiction for legal advice and representation relevant to your situation.