ARIZONA
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Arizona
Arizona law defines reportable child abuse as physical injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, emotional abuse, neglect, or abandonment of a minor under 18, unless it occurred by accident.
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy, ministers, priests, rabbis, and Christian Science practitioners are legally recognized as mandated reporters in Arizona. They must report suspected child abuse or neglect.
The only exemption is information received during a confidential confession or sacred communication, if the clergy member determines reporting would violate the tenets of their faith.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Clergy Mandatory Reporters Arizona)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Under A.R.S. § 13-3620, clergy who reasonably believe abuse has occurred must:
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Report immediately by phone or in person to DCS or law enforcement.
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Provide all known information, including the child’s name, address, and nature of the abuse.
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Understand that reporting to a supervisor or church leadership does not satisfy the law.
Failure to report is a class 1 misdemeanor.
(Source: Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3620 – Duty to Report Abuse)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Definitions include:
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Physical abuse – non-accidental injury
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Sexual abuse/exploitation – any sexual contact or exploitation
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Neglect – failure to provide adequate supervision, food, shelter, or medical care
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Emotional abuse – impairment of child’s emotional development
Churches are encouraged by DCS to:
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Train all clergy and volunteers on recognizing abuse.
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Post visible signs with the DCS hotline (1-888-767-2445).
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Develop prevention policies for safe interactions with minors.
(Source: Arizona DCS – What Mandated Reporters Need to Know)
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
All school personnel—including teachers, principals, counselors, coaches, aides, and volunteers—are mandated reporters. Reports must go directly to DCS or law enforcement, not just a supervisor.
(Source: Arizona Attorney General – Opinion on School Employees & Volunteers)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School employees who reasonably suspect abuse must report immediately. Schools are also required to post hotline signs in public areas with the DCS number and provide annual training to students and staff on recognizing and preventing abuse.
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Arizona schools must comply with:
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Erin’s Law – child sexual abuse prevention education.
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Safe Environment Laws – annual age-appropriate abuse prevention training.
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Staff responsibilities: recognize, document, and report without delay.
Definitions of abuse and neglect are consistent with Arizona’s DCS criteria.
(Source: Arizona DCS – Definitions of Abuse)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Arizona
Child abuse is a significant public health issue in Arizona. In FY 2024, DCS received over 73,000 child abuse reports. The state emphasizes trauma-informed care, early intervention, and school/community partnerships to reduce harm and long-term consequences for children.
(Source: Arizona DCS Annual Report 2024)
How to make a report in the state of Arizona
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
A report can be made to the DCS Statewide Toll-Free Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-767-2445, (1-888-SOS-CHILD) or law enforcement office. When reporting, the following information if known will be requested:
- name, age, and gender of child and other family members
- address, phone numbers, and/or directions to child’s home
- parents’ place of employment
- description of suspected abuse or neglect
- current condition of the child
For more information visit: https://dcs.az.gov/report-child-abuse
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
Uncompromising Protection: Elevating Child Safety Standards
In a world where child protection is paramount, ECAP is elevating child protection standards, ensuring a secure and nurturing environment in Christian ministries.
Every aspect of life adheres to specific standards – whether it be technology, education, finances, or industry practices.
In Jesus’ teachings, He imparted immense value to children, emphasizing the significance of their well-being. Reflecting on this profound truth, a compelling question emerges: Shouldn’t child protection be upheld to an even higher standard than these other areas, considering the blessing of children?
Join Us in the Fight to Protect the Next Generation.
Transforming child safety measures, ECAP is empowering Christian churches, schools, and camps nationwide to embrace an elevated standard of care.
Together, let’s shield our children from harm and create a brighter, safer tomorrow!
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
