Penn State and California’s Child Abuse Reporting Laws

When the university's former defensive coordinator was arrested for allegedly abusing children through his nonprofit youth sports organization, the school's long-time and popular head football coach and other university officials lost their jobs amid accusations they failed to notify police of their suspicions.

While "mandated" child abuse reporters in California includes adults in about 40 fields, including teachers, clergy and doctors, not specifically mentioned on the list are coaches and athletic directors at public and private higher learning institutions. Sen. Juan Vargas (D-San Diego) introduced legislation to close that gap and increase penalties for those who fail to report child abuse. (To see the state Penal Code for the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act, including responsibilities of mandated reporters, click here.)

Also, Assemblyman Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) announced he would address the issue by proposing legislation that would strip nonprofit organizations of their tax-exempt status if their representatives do not report suspected child sex abuse. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. George Miller (D-California), the ranking Democrat on the House Education Committee, asked for a hearing to investigate if federal laws can be changed to better protect children.

Los Angeles County has available online the booklet, Child Abuse Reporting ... And You, which simply tackles the sometimes complicated and difficult questions that arise around reporting suspected child abuse. The publication defines child abuse, explains what happens after an abuse report is made and helps distinguish what is abuse, and what isn't.

"Reporting should be done when a person either knows or suspects that a child has been or is in danger of abuse or neglect," the booklet states. "Hard proof is not needed to make a report. However, reports must be made in good faith. Use common sense."

Even though people may be afraid to get involved or report abuse, it is important to do so, the booklet states. If abuse is ignored it may - in some cases - get worse, resulting in serious harm or death to a child, the booklet adds.

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