Child Abuse Laws and Information by State

It’s important to understand state laws to prevent and respond to child abuse. State statutes may have different approaches to addressing child abuse and neglect.

Thousands of child abuse cases are reported in the country annually. Because of this, state laws created initiatives for child abuse prevention. Included in these initiatives is the mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect.

This page shares state-by-state statutes relating to child abuse and mandated reporting. Each state also links to state-specific child abuse information, resources, and agencies.

Is Child Abuse Illegal in Every State?

Yes. Every state and the District and Columbia have laws in place prohibiting child abuse and neglect. But specifics of child abuse laws, including definitions and penalties, vary by state. State laws also define the responsibilities of mandated reporters.

Navigating the Varying State Laws

Definitions of child abuse may vary depending on each state law. Similarly, varying civil and criminal charges are imposed against the alleged perpetrator. Perpetrators of child abuse and neglect could face criminal charges, felony charges, or misdemeanors, depending on the severity of the case.

Also, every state has social services and law enforcement agencies that handle this issue.

Recognizing the Different Types of Child Abuse and Neglect

Child abuse or neglect can happen in different forms. Included among them are the following:

• Physical abuse is the infliction of violence or force that causes harm or bodily injury to the child. Acts or omissions of the perpetrator can cause harm to the child.

• Emotional abuse is using actions or words that attack the child's self-worth and jeopardize the child's mental health. These words or actions can be in the form of embarrassment, isolation, belittling, or rejection of the child.

• Child sexual abuse or sexual exploitation involves any sexual act with a person under the age of majority. The sexual act can either be through physical contact or nonphysical contact.

• Neglect happens when someone fails to provide for the child's basic needs. Basic needs include, among others, child care, medical care, and health care, as well as emotional support and nurturing. Neglect is commonly committed by people with custody of the child, such as a child's parent or caregiver.

Any of these forms of abuse affect a child's health and well-being. Thus, it is crucial to recognize the common signs of abuse and neglect. People are also encouraged to make a report when there is reasonable cause to believe abuse and neglect happens.

What is a Mandated Reporter?

Through reporting laws, certain individuals called "mandatory reporters" must notify authorities — Child Protective Services or law enforcement — about child abuse cases. Mandatory reporters are also encouraged to report suspected cases.

Those required by law to report cases of abuse are mandatory reporters. People in frequent contact with children because of their professions have higher responsibility in reporting the abuse. For instance, most state laws list the following as mandated reporters:

• Social workers
• Teachers and educators
• Principals
• Other school personnel
• Clergy
• Physicians
• Nurses
• Other healthcare workers
• Counselors
• Therapists
• Other mental health professionals
• Childcare providers
• Medical examiners or coroners
• Law enforcement officers
• Human services employees

These laws aim to raise awareness of child abuse and help child protective services intervene in child abuse cases. There are also various child protective services throughout the country.

For instance, the Child Welfare Information Gateway promotes child safety. The organization also looks after the well-being of children and families. These organizations connect families and related professionals to resources, tools, and information on child abuse, neglect, and more.

After someone identifies child abuse, one of the main goals of child welfare agencies is to provide "permanency" for the child affected. Permanency means giving the child a safe, stable, and loving environment. Permanency happens through the child's placement to foster care or adoption. But, the law encourages family reunification of the child.

Child Abuse Prevention

A child experiencing abuse and neglect is at risk of physical injury, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation. Besides physical harm, these children may also suffer psychological and emotional trauma. These harms might include:

• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Other emotional and psychological problems

Several studies have shown that a child who suffers from abuse and neglect is more likely to have substance dependency issues later in life.

The effort to prevent child abuse and neglect combines societal factors. These procedures aim to prevent cases of child abuse from occurring. Prevention of future bodily injury and escalation of domestic violence are the primary goals of investigation, reporting, and intervention:

• Investigation
• Reporting
• Intervention and Removal

Child Abuse Investigation

A child protective services or law enforcement officer (or both) may conduct the investigation. A child abuse investigation includes interviewing the parents or caregiver and the child. The investigator may also interview other people familiar with the situation.

An investigation begins once a report of possible child maltreatment, neglect, sexual exploitation, or sexual abuse is received. The inquiry will determine whether someone has harmed the child or if the child is at risk of injury.

Then, officers will determine the best way to reduce the risk of harm and increase the child's safety. Law enforcement officers will also determine if criminal charges are appropriate.

The investigation should balance protecting the child and preserving the family unit. Child welfare workers are also encouraged to support families and assist them with providing a safe environment for the child.

Child welfare workers are encouraged to keep the child in the home. If this is not possible, they may place the child with family members. In most circumstances, it is preferable for a child to be with a family member versus foster care.

Child Abuse Intervention and Removal

If a child displays suspicious injuries or someone has reported child abuse, law enforcement or child protective services must assess the situation immediately.

If the child suffered from physical injury or sexual assault, the child should receive immediate medical care. A medical examination will also assess the child's health and overall well-being. The child protection workers who responded to the scene may collect evidence and images to better assess the situation.

After administering medical treatment and gathering evidence, a court process will follow in some cases.

With the help of medical experts, the court will assess whether the physical harm or abuse of the child occurred due to intentional infliction of injury or accidental means. The court authority may then direct child protective services to remove the child from the home. The person responsible for the abuse can face criminal charges or impairment of parental rights. In some cases, the court may place the child in foster care.

But, law enforcement officers must make reasonable efforts to keep the child in their home. Thus, social services programs are typically recommended to the child's parents or caregiver to aid in reunifying the family.

State Information: Child Abuse and Neglect Laws and Resources

Below is a snapshot of child abuse laws by state. The name of each state links to more comprehensive information on its child abuse and neglect statutes.

Each state also links to its child protection agency as well as helpful information and resources.

At the end of this page, you’ll find information on seeking legal help regarding child abuse or mandated reporting.

Alabama

• Alabama state statute defines child abuse as harm or threatened harm of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and nonnonaccidental/mental injury against a child under 18 years of age.
• The state law has a special rule that allows a child's parents to not seek medical help due to their religious beliefs. But, a judge can still decide if the child should have the necessary health care.
• Mandated reporters in Alabama are mostly healthcare professionals and healthcare organizations. Teachers and childcare facilities are also included.
• Mandated reporters are named in the Alabama Code, including healthcare providers, teachers, social workers, counselors, etc.
• Alabama Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board (Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention)
• Child Abuse FAQs (Alabama Department of Human Resources)
• Prevent Child Abuse Alabama (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Alaska

• Alaska's relevant statute defines "child abuse or neglect" as the physical injury or neglect, mental injury, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or maltreatment of a child under 18 years of age.
• The same statute also mentions "mental injury." This injury damages a child's emotional well-being and intellectual or psychological capacity.
• Alaska recognizes a religious exemption for parents, allowing the courts to dismiss an action against a parent seeking spiritual treatment. It must be through a recognized church or religion.
• The state law also names certain people who must report suspected child abuse. Due to their jobs, the mandated reporters must notify law enforcement agencies of domestic violence or alleged child abuse cases.
• Report Child Abuse in Alaska (Alaska Department of Family and Community Services – Office of Children's Services)
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (Alaska Youth Law Guide)
• Child Abuse Resources (Alaska Department of Family and Community Services – Office of Children's Services)

Arizona

• Arizona revised statute defines child abuse as inflicting or allowing physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, emotional or mental injury, or abandonment of a child under the age of 18.
• Arizona also has a department to handle reports of child abuse and neglect. Here, reporters are encouraged to report instances of abuse or make referrals to law enforcement agencies.
• Report Child Abuse or Neglect (Arizona Department of Child Safety)
• Regional Child Abuse Prevention Councils (Arizona Department of Child Safety)
• Childhood Neglect (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

Arkansas

• Arkansas's relevant statute defines child abuse in many different ways. An example of how the laws define child abuse is as intentionally, knowingly, or negligently without cause inflicting physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, or emotional and mental injuries of a child under the age of 18.
• Arkansas law provides that certain people report suspected child abuse.
• Child Protective Services (CPS): How to Report Child Abuse or Neglect (Arkansas Department of Human Services)
• Child Abuse Resources (Arkansas Commission on Child Abuse, Rape and Domestic Violence)
• Childhelp Arkansas (Childhelp)

California

• California statute defines child abuse as inflicting by nonaccidental means physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, or sexual exploitation of a child under the age of 18.
• The California Penal Code also names professionals as mandatory reporters who must report abuse and neglect cases. A subsection in the law discusses penalties and fines for failure to report cases of child abuse.
• Abuse and Neglect: Information for Parents (Judicial Council of California)
• Juvenile Dependency Forms (Judicial Branch of California)
• Find Help: Violence and Abuse (First5 California)

Colorado

• Colorado laws prohibit threats to a child's health and welfare due to physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, emotional/mental injury, or abandonment.
• If the "cultural practice" rises to the level of child abuse, the child's or parent's consent cannot be an affirmative defense. Belief in the practice, as a rule of the victim's — or the victim's parent's culture — cannot be a defense.
• Mandated reporters include over 40 different professions.
• Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Reporting System (Colorado Department of Human Services)
• Tennyson Center for Children (Tennyson Center for Children)
• Child Abuse and Neglect (CO4Kids)

Connecticut

• Connecticut state statute prohibits injuries inflicted by nonaccidental means involving physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, emotional maltreatment or mental harm, or abandonment.
• Connecticut's statute also has provisions relating to mandatory reporting, where individuals must report child abuse or child neglect to the Department of Children and Families (DCF) or law enforcement agencies.
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect FAQs (Department of Children and Families)
• Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect [PDF] (Department of Children and Families)
• Child Abuse or Neglect Resources (Connecticut Children's)

Delaware

• The relevant statute prohibits injuries inflicted by nonaccidental means. This involves physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, emotional or mental injury, or abandonment.
• Child Abuse laws in Delaware contain an exemption for religious purposes. Practices that would otherwise be child abuse are exempted if the actions were based on religious beliefs. This has been an ongoing debate in the state. It raises questions about balancing the protection of children and religious freedom.
• Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting (Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families)
• The Professionals' Guide to Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect [PDF] (Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families)
• Child Abuse/Neglect Mandatory Reporting Portal (Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families)

District of Columbia

• In the District of Columbia, child abuse is a serious offense. The acts that fall within this category include emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse and exploitation, and neglect.
• The District of Columbia also established a rule to report cases of child abuse. These rules apply to mandatory reporters listed in the D.C. Code.
• The District of Columbia laws say that children who are being, in good faith, are under treatment solely by spiritual means, and prayer in an established religion, by itself, does not form the basis for a child to be neglected.
• Report Child Abuse and Neglect (D.C. Child and Family Services Agency)
• Signs of Child Abuse and Neglect (D.C. Child and Family Services Agency)
• Safe Shores (D.C. Children's Advocacy Center)

Florida

• Florida statutes prohibit willful or threatened acts where there is harm to children due to physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, or emotional or mental injury.
• Florida also has statewide laws that address mandatory reporting of child abuse cases.
• Florida Abuse (Department of Children and Families)
• A Parent's Guide to Juvenile Dependency Court (Florida's Center for Child Welfare)

Georgia

• The code of Georgia prohibits injuries inflicted by nonaccidental means involving physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, or sexual exploitation. The state statute also has a category of child abuse relating to the child's exposure to illegal drugs.
• The parental rights in Georgia allow corporal punishment. But, this should not result in physical injury to the child.
• Mandatory reporters are likewise listed in the code. These people must report suspected cases of abuse or neglect. They can report it to social services, the Division of Family and Children Services, or law enforcement agencies.
• Child Abuse and Neglect (Georgia Division of Family and Children Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Georgia (Georgia State University)

Hawaii

• Hawaii's relevant statute prohibits acts or omissions resulting in the child being harmed or subject to any reasonably foreseeable, large risk of being injured by physical abuse or neglect, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation, or emotional or mental injury.
• The state law prohibits corporal punishment in school and childcare facilities. But parents can incorporate it as long as it is not excessive and does not cause injury.
• Child Welfare Services (Hawai'i Department of Human Services and Social Services)
• Child Abuse Resources (Cap4Kids Children's Advocacy Project of Hawaii)
• Hawai'i Children's Justice Centers (Hawai'i State Judiciary)

Idaho

• Idaho code prohibits conduct or omission resulting in physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, or emotional or mental injury.
• Mandatory reporting of child abuse is also law in the state. Everyone must report known or suspected cases of abuse.
• Report Neglect, Abuse, and Abandonment (Idaho Department of Health and Welfare)
• Child Abuse Prevention and Reporting Resources (Idaho Network of Children's Advocacy Centers)
• Child Protection (Idaho Supreme Court)

Illinois

• The relevant statute prohibits persons from inflicting, causing, or allowing to be inflicted, creating a large risk, or committing or allowing to be committed physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or emotional or mental injury.
• The Illinois code lists the professions of mandated reporters, including social workers, health professionals, and those in education.
• Children and Family Services Hotlines (Illinois Department of Children and Family Services)
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (Illinois Department of Children & Family Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Illinois (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Indiana

• Indiana's child abuse laws prohibit acts or omissions resulting in physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, or emotional or mental injury.
• Indiana allows corporal punishment if it does not result in injury or harm.
• Mandatory reporters are included in the state law. Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect must report it.
• Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect Resources (Indiana Family and Social Services Administration)
• Do I have to report suspected child abuse? (Indiana Legal Services)
• Child Abuse Hotline (Indiana Department of Child Services)

Iowa

• The relevant statute prohibits intentional infliction of physical injury on a child. It includes such injuries due to the acts or omissions of a person responsible for caring for a child.
• As in other states, corporal punishment is a parental right. But it should not result in harm or injury to the child.
• Reporting of child abuse is not specified to certain professions or occupations. Everyone must report the abuse.
• Child Abuse: Guide for Mandatory Reporters [PDF] (Iowa Department of Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Iowa Resources (Prevent Child Abuse America)
• Child Protection Resources (Iowa Department of Health and Human Services)

Kansas

• Kansas's relevant statutes prohibit infliction of physical, mental, or emotional harm to the child. This act includes sexual abuse or exploitation and nonaccidental harm to a child's health.
• Kansas allows corporal punishment. But it should not result in harm or injury to the child.
• Kansas law requires some professionals to report suspected child abuse.
• Child Abuse Report Guide [PDF] (Kansas Department for Children and Families)
• Reporting Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of Adult and Child (Kansas Department for Children and Families)
• Prevent Child Abuse Kansas (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Kentucky

• Kentucky's revised statutes prohibit harm or threat of damage, infliction, or allowance of infliction of physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, or emotional or mental injury to a child.
• Kentucky law also allows corporal punishment. But it should not result in injury to the child.
• In Kentucky, it is the duty of anyone who has reasonable cause to believe that a child is dependent, abused, or neglected to report this information. Specific people are also required to report suspected cases of abuse and must file a written report as directed by Kentucky law.
• Juvenile Dependency, Neglect, and Abuse Petition (Kentucky Court of Justice)
• Child Protection Branch (Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services)
• Find Help – Kentucky's Children Advocacy Centers (Commonwealth of Kentucky)

Louisiana

• Louisiana defines child abuse as acts that endanger a child's physical, mental, or emotional health. Neglect is the unreasonable failure of a caregiver to provide a child with basic necessities — such as food, shelter, and medical or mental health treatment — and the failure to do so threatens or impairs the child's physical, mental, or emotional health and safety.
• The state law has a list of mandatory reporters. The law also requires any adult who witnesses a child being sexually abused to report it. Included in the list of mandatory reporters are those who commercially process film. Also, anyone who knows about the rape, homicide, or sexual abuse of a child must report it.
• Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect FAQ (Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services)
• Child Protection Investigation (Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services)
• Childhelp Louisiana (Childhelp)

Maine

• Maine's revised statutes define child abuse as an act or omission that causes danger or injury to a child's physical, mental, or emotional well-being.
• Maine requires mandatory reporters to make a report to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Reports can also be made to law enforcement agencies if the person accused of committing the abuse is not a caregiver.
• Reporting Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (Maine Department of Health and Human Services)
• Child Protection (Maine Child and Family Services)
• How to Report Child Abuse/Neglect (Maine Child and Family Services)

Maryland

• The relevant statute prohibits harm or large risk of harm in conduct toward children where the conduct results in physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or emotional or mental injury.
• Everyone in Maryland must report suspected child abuse or neglect. The statute contains no exemptions.
• Petition for Protection from Domestic Violence/Child Abuse/Vulnerable Adult Abuse [PDF] (District Court of Maryland)
• Dictionary (for Use With Petition For Protection from Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, and Vulnerable Adult Abuse) [PDF] (District Court of Maryland)
• Report Abuse (Maryland Children's Alliance Inc.)

Massachusetts

• The relevant statute prohibits a child's caregiver from engaging in non-accidental conduct that causes physical or emotional injury to a child or constitutes a sexual offense under the laws of Massachusetts. Neglect is the failure to provide the child with basic necessities.
• It also prohibits a child's caregiver from engaging in conduct that creates a large risk of injury or sexual offenses.
• Mandatory reporting laws say that those acting professionally must report suspected child abuse or neglect.
• Warning Signs of Child Abuse and Neglect (Massachusetts Department of Children and Families)
• Report Child Abuse or Neglect (Executive Office of Health and Human Services)
• List of Child Physical and Sexual Abuse Services by Massachusetts County (Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance)

Michigan

• Michigan's relevant statute on child abuse prohibits harm or threatened harm, to a child's health or welfare, from physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or an emotional or mental injury to a child.
• The same statute contains exemptions for corporal punishment as long as the punishment is "reasonable."
• Michigan mandated reporters must report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
• A Model Child Abuse Protocol - DHS Pub-794 [PDF] (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services)
• Report Abuse and Neglect (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services)
• Childhelp Michigan (Childhelp)

Minnesota

• The relevant statute prohibits physical, emotional, and sexual abuse and neglect of children. Non-accidental injury or risk of injury is the defining characteristic.
• The goal of mandatory reporting is, like other states, to protect children from abuse and neglect. Mandatory reporters are certain named professionals who suspect child abuse or neglect within the previous three years. They are different from "voluntary reporters," who are any people who suspect abuse or neglect.
• Report Abuse (Minnesota Department of Human Services)
• What is Considered Child Abuse and Neglect in Minnesota? (Minnesota Department of Human Services)
• Education Materials and Other Resources (Midwest Children's Resource Center)

Mississippi

• The relevant statute in Mississippi prohibits neglecting, sexually abusing, sexually exploiting, or emotionally or mentally injuring children. The same statute also prohibits a child's caregiver from failing to intervene in any prohibited activities.
• It also contains an exemption for corporal punishment. Physical discipline performed on a child by a parent or other guardian "in a reasonable manner" is not considered child abuse under the code. Corporal punishment must not result in serious bodily harm.
• The law specifies mandated reporters by profession in the Mississippi code. But everyone must report suspected child abuse.
• Report Child Abuse/Neglect (Mississippi Department of Human Services)
• Types of Child Abuse (Mississippi State Department of Health)
• How to Report Abuse (Mississippi State Department of Health)

Missouri

• Missouri's state statutes define child abuse as any physical, sexual, or emotional injury inflicted on a child — other than by accidental means — by those responsible for the child's care, custody, and control.
• State law allows discipline on children if performed in a "reasonable manner."
• Missouri's mandatory reporting rules are like other states. Several professionals listed in the Missouri Code must report suspected child abuse.
• Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (Missouri Department of Social Services)
• Child Abuse and Neglect Investigation (Missouri Department of Social Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Missouri (Missouri KidsFirst)

Montana

• The child abuse laws in Montana define child abuse or neglect as actual or psychological harm to the child, serious risk of such harm, or abandonment. It includes acts and omissions, sex trafficking, and exposing the child to the distribution of dangerous drugs.
• Mandatory reporting laws in Montana are like those in many other states. Certain professionals must report cases of abuse or neglect to the proper authorities.
• Child and Family Services (Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services)
• Hotline Numbers (Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services)
• Resources (Parenting Montana)

Nebraska

• The relevant statute prohibits knowingly, intentionally, or negligently causing or permitting physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, or emotional or mental injury to children.
• Like other states, those whose professions have regular contact with children are mandatory reporters. They must report cases of child abuse and neglect. The code also directs that "any other person [with] reasonable cause" to believe that a child is being abused must also report.
• Child Welfare and Protection (Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services)
• Child Abuse and Neglect (Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Nebraska (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Nevada

• Nevada stated the definition of child abuse in its state law. Included in the definition is the physical or mental injury of a child that is nonaccidental in nature. Also included are sexual exploitation or abuse and negligent treatment or maltreatment of the child.
• The mandatory reporting laws in Nevada are the same as in other states. They are designed to protect children. The rules require people in the best position to notice the abuse to report it immediately.
• Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child and Family Services)
• Child Protective Services (Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child and Family Services)
• Resources (Children's Advocacy Centers of Nevada)

New Hampshire

• New Hampshire code defines child abuse as an act (or failure to act) that results in serious harm to a child's health and welfare, or creates the risk for harm. Child abuse includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as exploitation, neglect, and abandonment.
• New Hampshire requires doctors, teachers, and others with similarly regular access to children to report any signs or knowledge of child abuse. The full statute contains a list of specific occupations.
• Child Protection Services (New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services)
• Report Child Abuse (New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse in New Hampshire (Prevent Child Abuse America)

New Jersey

• State law defines child abuse as a physical injury by other than accidental means, causing substantial risk of death, injury, or emotional health impairment. This includes sexual abuse, willful abandonment, willful isolation, inappropriate placement in institution, and neglect by not supplying adequate care, necessaries, or supervision.
• New Jersey law requires anyone who has witnessed an act of child abuse (or has reason to believe it has occurred) to contact the state's Division of Youth and Family Services. This law is more broad than most other states and does not provide a list of specific roles and occupations of mandated reporters.
• How and When to Report Child Abuse/Neglect (New Jersey Department of Children and Families)
• New Jersey Division of Youth and Family Services (New Jersey Department of Children and Families)
• Report Abuse (Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey)

New Mexico

• The relevant child abuse statute prohibits knowingly, intentionally, or negligently causing or permitting physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, and abandonment of children. The state law also includes child neglect in the definition of child abuse.
• New Mexico has laws about mandatory reporting and lists specific professionals who must report cases of abuse or neglect. New Mexico code also specifies that everyone is required to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
• Definitions of Abuse and Neglect (New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department)
• Reporting Child Abuse (New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department)
• Childhelp New Mexico (Childhelp)

New York

• New York state law similarly prohibits physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of children. An "abused child is a child whose parent or other person legally responsible for his/her care inflicts upon the child serious physical injury, creates a large risk of serious physical injury, or commits an act of sex abuse against the child."
• Using excessive corporal punishment is child abuse and neglect.
• Mandated reporters are professionals specified in the New York code. The same law requires these people to report abuse or maltreatment cases. New York law also authorizes child protective services to investigate reports of abuse or neglect.
• Child Protective Forms (New York State Unified Court System)
• Prevent Child Abuse New York (Prevent Child Abuse America)
• Shaken Baby Syndrome (New York Department of Health)

North Carolina

• The relevant statute in North Carolina prohibits physically, emotionally, or sexually abusing a child. Corporal punishment is permitted so long as "cruel or grossly inappropriate procedures" are not employed.
• Mandatory reporters in North Carolina include "any person" with cause to suspect a child is being or has been subjected to abuse must report. But, some professionals are exempt from reporting in cases where the information was learned via protected privilege.
• Child Protective Services (North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina (Prevent Child Abuse America)
• Child Abuse Response and Prevention (North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence)

North Dakota

• In North Dakota, an abused child is defined as someone under 18 years of age suffering abuse. Abusive conduct includes physical injury, neglect, sexual abuse, or emotional harm. Exposure of the child to illegal drugs is included in this definition.
• Mandated reporters are professionals specified in the North Dakota code. In addition to this list, anyone may report suspected abuse. But anyone who has reasonable cause to suspect a child may be subject to abuse via "images of sexual conduct by a child discovered on a workplace computer" must report.
• North Dakota Child Protection Program (North Dakota Department of Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse North Dakota (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Ohio

• The Ohio law defines child abuse as threatened harm to the child's welfare or health by a person responsible for it. The abuse can be in various forms, such as physical injury, sexual conduct, or neglect.
• Ohio allows corporal punishment, but it must not be excessive or create a large risk of serious harm to the child.
• Like other states, certain professionals are mandated reporters and must report cases of abuse or neglect.
• How to Report Child Abuse or Neglect (Ohio Department of Job and Family Services)
• You Can Help Prevent Child Abuse (Ohio Children's Trust Fund)
• Child Protective Services (Ohio Department of Job and Family Services)

Oklahoma

• Oklahoma state law defines child abuse as a failure to act that results in physical or emotional harm or threatened harm. Sexual abuse or exploitation is also included in this definition. The child's exposure to a controlled substance is also considered a form of child abuse.
• Corporal punishment is permitted but "extreme physical punishment inappropriate to the child's age or condition" is not allowed.
• The laws on mandatory reporting say everyone must report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.
• Child Protective Services Unit (Oklahoma Department of Human Services)
• Office of Child Abuse Prevention (Oklahoma State Department of Health)
• Oklahoma Child Abuse Hotline (Oklahoma State Department of Health)

Oregon

• Oregon law defines child abuse as any assault of a child and any physical injury to a child caused by other than accidental means. This includes rape, sexual abuse/exploitation, failure to provide adequate care, negligent treatment, threatening harm to a child's health or welfare, and any mental injury which includes substantial impairment to a child's ability to function.
• Oregon’s child abuse statute also covers the act of allowing a child to engage in prostitution, buying or selling a child, and permitting a child to enter a place where methamphetamines are manufactured.
• Oregon law requires any public or private official (including first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, social workers, clergy members, and others) to report any suspected child abuse to the local Department of Human Services.
• Child Abuse and Neglect (Oregon Department of Human Services)
• Child Abuse and Neglect Risk Factor Checklist [PDF] (Oregon Department of Human Services)
• What You Can Do About Child Abuse [PDF] (Oregon Department of Human Services)

Pennsylvania

• The relevant statute prohibits physically abusing, neglecting, sexually abusing, sexually exploiting, or emotionally or mentally injuring children. The same statute prohibits failures to intervene in the prohibited activities listed above.
• The statute contains exemptions for religion, poverty, and corporal punishment. Suppose there is a question of a child requiring medical assistance or attention within the scope of a possible exemption for religion or poverty. In that case, a court can order that any child receive medical attention or assistance regardless of any objection from the child's caretaker. The exemption doesn't apply if the child dies.
• Mandated reporters are professionals likely to have contact with children and are specified in the code.
• Child Welfare Portal (Pennsylvania Child Welfare Information Solution)
• Abuse and Neglect Definition (Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance)
• Keep Kids Safe (Pennsylvania Department of Human Services)

Puerto Rico

• Child Abuse Hotline Number (Reproductive Health National Training Center)
• Administración Auxiliar de Protección Social (Puerto Rico Child Protective Services)
• Regional Help (Office of Regional Operations – An Office of the Administration for Children and Families)

Rhode Island

• Rhode Island's relevant statute prohibits a child's caretaker from physically, emotionally, or sexually abusing children or neglecting them.
• "Excessive corporal punishment" is included in the definition of child abuse.
• In Rhode Island, all persons are mandatory reporters of child abuse or neglect.
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families)
• Child Welfare in Rhode Island (Rhode Island Kids Count)

South Carolina

• In South Carolina, child abuse and neglect refers to acts or omissions that cause harm or risk of harm to the child's health, well-being, and safety. This includes physical harm and maltreatment, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect, or abandonment.
• Excessive corporal punishment is abuse. The code also describes elements of corporal punishment that are not considered abuse.
• The law lists professionals mandated to report child abuse and neglect cases.
• Child Protective Services (South Carolina Department of Social Services)
• Need to Report Abuse or Neglect? (South Carolina Department of Social Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse South Carolina (Prevent Child Abuse America)

South Dakota

• The child abuse statute in South Dakota prohibits physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, abandonment, and emotional or mental injury.
• Certain professionals must report suspicion of child abuse to the appropriate authorities. But anyone with a reasonable doubt of abuse should register the case. Any person who believes that a child died as a result of abuse must report it.
• Report Abuse and Neglect (South Dakota Child Protection Services)
• Child Abuse and Neglect Mandatory Reporting (South Dakota Child Protection Services)

Tennessee

• The state statute in Tennessee defines child abuse as any act or failure to act that causes harm to a child. This includes physical or emotional injury, neglect, sexual abuse, exploitation, and abandonment.
• Physical injuries "in excess of age-appropriate corporal punishment" may be considered child abuse.
• All people must report cases of child abuse and neglect. This rule extends the duty to report not just to professionals but to the public as a whole.
• Tennessee Department of Children's Services (Tennessee State Government)
• Child Abuse Reporting (Tennessee Department of Children's Services)
• Preventing Sexual Abuse of Children [PDF] (University of Tennessee)

Texas

• Texas defines child abuse as an act or omission that results in emotional and physical injury to the child. It also includes emotional harm, sexual misconduct, substance abuse, or involvement of the child in pornographic activities.
• Corporal punishment is prohibited when it is excessive or abusive.
• Any person who suspects a case of child abuse or neglect must report it. This extends the responsibility of reporting the abuse to the general public.
• Report Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services)
• Texas Child Protective Services (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services)
• Child Abuse Prevention and Safety Resources (Texas Department of State Health Services)

Utah

• Utah state law defines child abuse as any intentional or reckless act or failure to act that causes physical or mental injury to the child. This includes sexual abuse and sexual exploitation. Utah also has provisions for the investigation and treatment of children who have been exposed to domestic violence.
• Corporal punishment is permitted if the conduct is "reasonable discipline or management of a child."
• All people who believe a child has been subjected to abuse, neglect, or dependency must report it.
• Child Abuse Prevention (Utah Department of Health and Human Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Utah (Prevent Child Abuse Utah)
• Child Protective Services (Utah Department of Health and Human Services)

Vermont

• Vermont state statute defines child abuse as any act of omission that can either be physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, or emotional abuse. The provision also requires the investigation and treatment of children who have been exposed to domestic violence or drug abuse.
• Corporal punishment is not addressed in the Vermont code section that defines abuse.
• Vermont law requires certain professionals to report cases of abuse and neglect.
• Reporting Child Abuse (Vermont Department for Children and Families)
• Child Abuse and Reporting [PDF] (Vermont Department of Health Agency of Education)
• Resources for Families (Vermont Agency of Human Services)

Virginia

• In Virginia, child abuse is sexual abuse, physical injury, emotional harm, or neglect.
• Parent corporal punishment is permitted so long as it is "within the bounds of moderation and reason."
• The Virginia law's reporting rules require a mandatory reporter to notify law enforcement agencies or social services of the abuse as soon as practicable but not more than 24 hours after becoming aware of the abuse.
• Child Abuse & Foster Care Prevention (Virginia Department of Social Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Virginia (Prevent Child Abuse America)
• Child Abuse Prevention Toolkits (Families Forward Virginia)

Washington

• The relevant statute prohibits harm to children of health, welfare, or safety resulting from physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, or sexual exploitation.
• Washington specifies that corporal punishment be reasonable and moderate. Specific acts of corporal punishment are unlawful.
• The reporting rules in Washington require mandatory reporters to report the abuse as soon as practicable. People with regular contact with children as part of their profession are on the list.
• What is Child Abuse and Neglect? (Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families)
• Prevent Child Abuse Washington (Prevent Child Abuse America)
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (Washington State Office of the Attorney General)

West Virginia

• West Virginia law defines an abused child as one whose health or welfare is harmed or threatened by an intentionally inflicted physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, domestic violence, or human trafficking.
• Corporal punishment that causes an injury may be considered abuse if it is "excessive."
• There is a list of professionals who are also required to report suspected child abuse or neglect cases.
• Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect (West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources)
• Prevention Resources – Child Abuse and Neglect (West Virginia Violence and Injury Prevention Program)
• Childhelp West Virginia (Childhelp)

Wisconsin

• Wisconsin state law defines child abuse as any act or omission that causes or creates a large risk of physical or mental harm to a child, including physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, or exploitation.
• The state allows "reasonable" corporal punishment.
• Wisconsin law lists professionals required to report suspected cases of abuse. This includes educators and social workers. Others who, through their professional interactions with children regularly, are also included on the list.
• Report Child Abuse and Neglect (Wisconsin Department of Children and Families)
• Child Abuse, Neglect, and Abandonment (Wisconsin State Law Library)
• Prevent Child Abuse Wisconsin (Prevent Child Abuse America)

Wyoming

• Wyoming's state law defines child abuse as inflicting or causing physical or mental injury, harm, or imminent danger to a child's physical or mental health or welfare. Also included are abandonment and excessive or unreasonable corporal punishment. Malnutrition, intentional or unintentional neglect, or committing a sexual offense is also included in this definition.
• The same statute further requires that the prohibited acts be intentional.
• Corporal punishment must not be excessive or unreasonable.
• All people who suspect child abuse or neglect are mandatory reporters.
• Reporting Abuse/Neglect (Wyoming Department of Family Services)
• Wyoming Division of Victim Services (Wyoming Division of Victim Services)
• Prevent Child Abuse Wyoming (Prevent Child Abuse America)

National Child Abuse Information and Resources

• Child Welfare Information Gateway (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services)
• MedlinePlus: Child Abuse (National Library of Medicine)

Get Legal Help With a Child Abuse Concern

Child abuse and neglect are a serious concern. The penalties for child abuse can range from misdemeanors to more severe offenses. So, learning about the signs of abuse is crucial before the situation worsens. Remember that each state has its statute that addresses this case.

A child victim of abuse can also be placed in foster care. Here, there will be a suspension of parental rights. The child will get a foster parent, serving as a temporary family.

If you have concerns, do not hesitate to contact a child abuse hotline or contact a family law attorney near you. These lawyers can help you understand your rights. They will also provide legal support. The lawyer will guide you in your advocacy to protect the child.