Important Memo
Child Protection Law Changes in PA

To all CBAA Volunteers:

 

Recently, legislation has been enacted to improve how Pennsylvania responds to child abuse. Please read below to understand the impact these laws have on you and CBAA.

 

The definition of who is now considered a MANDATORY REPORTER of suspected child abuse has been expanded to include paid and unpaid (i.e volunteers) who, on the basis of their role as an integral part of a regularly scheduled program, activity or service, accepts responsibility for a child or has direct contact with a child.

 

***COACHES, PLEASE FORWARD THIS INFORMATION TO ANY TRAINERS OR OTHER PERSONS THAT YOU USE TO INTERACT WITH OUR PLAYERS***

 

AM I A MANDATORY REPORTER?

All coaches, assistant coaches and trainers are now considered mandatory reporters effective January 1, 2015. If you do not perform one of these roles but meet the definition of a mandatory reporter (above) in your role within CBAA than you are a mandatory reporter.

 

Click here to see further information:  Frequently Asked Questions

 

WHAT IS CONSIDERED CHILD ABUSE? 

Click here to see further information:  Frequently Asked Questions

 

WHEN MUST A MANDATORY REPORTER MAKE A REPORT?

A mandated reporter must make a report of suspected child abuse if they have reasonable cause to suspect that a child is a victim of child abuse.  Note that your identity remains confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone. You are also immune from civil and criminal liability as long as the report was made in good faith.  Click here to see further information:  Frequently Asked Questions

 

HOW DO MANDATORY REPORTERS MAKE A REPORT OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE?
Reporters must make an immediate and direct report of suspected child abuse to ChildLine either electronically at www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis  or by calling 1-800- 932-0313.  Reporting up or within CBAA is not an acceptable form of reporting.  AFTER you report the suspected abuse you are required to contact Michelle Obetz, CBAA Compliance and Safety Director at [email protected]

 

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Contact Michelle Obetz,  CBAA Compliance and Safety Director  [email protected]

 

 

COMING SOON: BACKGROUND CHECKS

Effective July 1, 2015, all mandatory reporters within CBAA must be identified and specific background checks will be required as mandated by these new laws.  More information will follow within the next several months to further explain and guide mandatory reporters through this process .

Timely news article in the Intelligencer:  

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