Mandated Reporters
Michigan law requires certain individuals to make reports of suspected child abuse. Failure of a mandated reporter to make contact with the police or MDHHS could subject the mandated reporter to professional discipline, such as losing their professional license or their job, or could even result in criminal prosecution. Those individuals who are required to report include:
- Police
- Social Workers
- Doctors and Dentists
- Physician's Assistants
- Emergency Medical Care Providers
- Psychologists and Therapists
- Nurses and Dental Hygienists
- Audiologists
- Teachers and School Counselors
- School Administrators
- Regulated Child Care Providers
- Professionals employed at the Friend of the Court
- Medical Examiners
- Clergy
Because Michigan's school professionals have the largest exposure to children during their day-to-day lives, it is especially critical that teachers, counselors, and school administrators know their requirement to report suspected child abuse or child neglect.
The Voices for Children Advocacy Center has created this useful resource guide for educators to use to guide them when they suspect there might be abuse or neglect occurring in a child's life.