11/24/2025
Did you know that anyone over the age of 18 in NH, Rhode Island and Florida is considered a mandated reporter?
Several states require any person (meaning anyone over the age of 18) who has reason to suspect child abuse or neglect to report it.
These states include:
Arkansas (as of August 1, 2023)
Delaware
Florida
Idaho
Indiana
Kentucky
Maryland
Mississippi
Nebraska
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
North Carolina
Oklahoma
Rhode Island
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Wyoming
In most other states, the law designates specific professions (e.g., teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, law enforcement) as mandatory reporters, but any other person is permitted (but not legally required) to report suspected abuse (permissive reporters). In all states, anyone who reports in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability.
For more information on reporting procedures in a specific state, consult the Child Welfare Information Gateway or your local department of children and families