Lesson One - The Law
What is the law?
The 1975 Child Protection Law of Michigan states that any person, including a child, can report a reasonable suspicion of child abuse [MCL 722.624]. In addition, the law identifies specific professionals who must report their suspicion (mandated reporters). The law states:
A mandated reporter, who has reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or neglect, shall make immediately, by telephone or otherwise, and oral report, or cause an oral report to be made, of the suspected child abuse or neglect to the department. Within 72 hours after making the oral report, the reporting person shall file a written report as required in this act.
Professionals that are considered by law to be mandated reporters are:
| physician | licensed professional counselor |
| dentist | certified social worker |
| physician's assistant | social worker |
| registered dental hygienist | social worker technician |
| medical examiner | school administrator |
| nurse | school counselor or teacher |
| emergency medical care | law enforcement officer |
| audiologist | member of the clergy |
| psychologist | regulated child care provider |
| marriage and family therapist |
If the reporting person is a member of the staff of a hospital, agency, or school, the reporting person shall notify the person in charge of the hospital, agency, or school of his or her finding and that the report has been made, and shall make a copy of the written report available to the person in charge.
