Mandated reporters under CANRA (California Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act) have the legal responsibility to report known or reasonably suspected child abuse or neglect. They have the following key responsibilities and protections:
- They must report observed or suspected child abuse or neglect to designated law enforcement or social service agencies immediately.
- They have immunity from civil and criminal liability for reports made in good faith.
- They are entitled to confidentiality regarding their identity as a reporter, which is disclosed only among agencies involved in investigating the report.
- Employers cannot retaliate or sanction mandated reporters for making a report, and supervisors cannot impede reporting.
- The duty to report is triggered when the knowledge or observation arises within the reporter's professional capacity or scope of employment.
Mandated reporters include a range of professionals such as teachers, childcare providers, law enforcement personnel, medical and mental health professionals, coaches, and others who have regular contact with children. Specific legal listings are in California Penal Code section 11165.7. In summary, mandated reporters under CANRA must report suspected child abuse or neglect promptly, are protected against liability and retaliation, and their identity is kept confidential except to investigating agencies.