The New Law Takes Effect Sept. 1
The Colorado Office of School Safety (OSS) is highlighting a new state law that changes how and when suspected child abuse or neglect should be reported. The law, which takes effect on September 1, impacts educators and other mandatory reporters.
To help school professionals understand the new requirements, we're promoting a comprehensive guide from Chalkbeat, titled "Colorado has a new child abuse reporting law. Here’s a guide for educators on the new requirements."
The new law:
- Clarifies Reporting Deadlines: Mandates that reports be made within 24 hours of suspicion.
- Prohibits Delegation: States that mandatory reporters must make the report themselves and cannot delegate this duty to a supervisor or colleague.
- Addresses Disproportionality: Prohibits making reports based on factors like race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, aiming to reduce the disproportionate number of low-income families and families of color who are reported.
We encourage all school staff to read this article to ensure they are up-to-date with the new legal requirements.