Note: This information does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to consult with attorneys who are knowledgeable and experienced regarding specific applicability of these listed laws, based on their own circumstances.
California
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CHURCH GUIDELINES
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of California
Under California’s Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), “child abuse or neglect” includes:
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Physical injury or death inflicted on a child by non-accidental means.
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Sexual abuse, inclusive of sexual assault and sexual exploitation as defined by Penal Code § 11165.1.
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Neglect, including both severe and general neglect as defined in the statutory scheme.
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Willful harming or injuring, or endangering of the health or person of a child.
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Unlawful corporal punishment or injury resulting in a traumatic condition.
California law explicitly excludes a mutual altercation between minors and certain reasonable uses of force by peace officers from the definition of reportable abuse.
(Source: Penal Code § 11165.6; definitions of sexual abuse and related conduct: Penal Code § 11165.1.)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy members in California, defined broadly to include priests, ministers, rabbis, religious practitioners, and similar functionaries — are mandated reporters under CANRA. Clergy must report when they, in their professional capacity or within the scope of their duties, know or reasonably suspect child abuse or neglect. However, California law provides a limited exception for information acquired during a penitential communication (e.g., a confidential confession or similar private communication that a clergy member is authorized and accustomed to hear and is bound to keep secret). This exception does not apply if the clergy member learns of abuse outside such privileged communications or while acting in another role that makes them a mandated reporter.
(Source: Penal Code § 11165.7(a)(32); Penal Code § 11166(d) (penitential communication exception).)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
A mandated reporter must immediately make an initial report by telephone to a designated agency whenever, in their professional capacity or scope of employment/duties, they know or reasonably suspect a child has been abused or neglected. A written follow-up report must be prepared and submitted within 36 hours of receiving the information. Mandated reporters must include as much information as possible about the child, the suspected abuse, the reporter’s identifying details, and any relevant persons involved. Failure to report carries potential misdemeanor penalties.
(Source: Penal Code § 11166(a); Penal Code § 11167 (report contents requirement).)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
California statute does not differentiate between church and non-church contexts for definitions of child abuse, the statutory definitions of abuse and neglect apply uniformly. CANRA does not mandate specific prevention policies for churches statewide but does define who is a mandated reporter and encourages organizations (including faith-based ones) to train staff or volunteers whose duties require direct contact and supervision of children. Volunteers whose duties bring them into contact with children are not mandated reporters but are encouraged to report suspected abuse.
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
School personnel including teachers, aides, classified employees, administrators, certificated pupil personnel, school counselors, and others whose duties involve direct contact and supervision of children in public and private schools are mandated reporters under CANRA. Clergy members who also serve in school roles are likewise mandated reporters in that context.
(Source: Penal Code § 11165.7(a).)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School mandated reporters must immediately make a telephone report to a local law enforcement agency, sheriff’s department (excluding district security), county probation (if designated), or county welfare/child protective services when they know or reasonably suspect a child has been abused or neglected. A written report must follow within 36 hours. Reporting to a supervisor or principal does not satisfy the legal duty to report. Confidentiality of the report and reporter’s identity is maintained by law, and mandated reporters enjoy civil and criminal immunity for good-faith reports. Failure to report can result in misdemeanor charges (e.g., up to six months in county jail and/or fines).
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
The statutory definitions of child abuse and neglect (e.g., physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect) apply equally in school settings. California requires that school districts annually train employees and persons working on their behalf in mandated reporter duties. School policies may add internal reporting procedures but cannot supplant the statutory duty to report directly to appropriate agencies. School volunteers, while not legally mandated reporters, should be trained to recognize and report abuse.
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in California
Hotline & Reporting: Mandated reporters must make immediate telephone reports when they know or reasonably suspect child abuse or neglect. Reports can be made to local law enforcement, county welfare/child protective services, or other designated agencies. Follow-up written reports must be transmitted within 36 hours. Any person (not just mandated reporters) may report suspected abuse.
Investigation & Services: Local law enforcement and child welfare agencies investigate reports and initiate services to protect children. Child Protective Services (CPS) is a primary agency for investigation and intervention.
Immunity & Confidentiality: Reporters acting in good faith are immune from civil/criminal liability; confidentiality of the reporter’s identity and the report is afforded by law.
Penalties: Failure to report as required may result in misdemeanor charges (up to six months in jail and/or fines). If failure to report results in death or great bodily injury, penalties are greater. False reports made knowingly and maliciously may expose the reporter to civil liability.
How to make a report in the state of California
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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**Report suspected child abuse or neglect to your County Child Protective Services (CPS) hotline. Each county has a 24/7 emergency response line — these are listed on the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website.
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Many counties also have toll-free reporting numbers. For example:
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San Diego County: 1-800-344-6000 (24/7)
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San Francisco County (Family & Children’s Services): 1-800-856-5553 (24/7)
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Sacramento County: (916) 875-5437 (Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline)
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Los Angeles County (DCFS): 1-800-540-4000 (24/7)
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Emergency? Call 911 first.
After Making the Call –
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Under California law (Penal Code § 11166), an oral/verbal report must be made immediately or as soon as practicable by phone to CPS or law enforcement.
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Mandated reporters (e.g., teachers, medical staff, childcare workers, social workers) must follow the oral report with a written Suspected Child Abuse Report (SCAR), Form SS 8572, within 36 hours of receiving the information.
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Written reports are submitted per county CPS instructions (fax, mail, or electronic submission where available).
Information to Provide (as known):
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Child’s name, age, and address/location
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Description of suspected abuse or neglect — what was seen, heard, or disclosed; any injuries or safety concerns
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Names of parents/caregivers or persons responsible, if known
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Any immediate safety, medical, or danger concerns
Who Should Report / Legal Duty:
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Any person who suspects child abuse or neglect should report.
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Mandated reporters are legally required to report any reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect.
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A report may be made to a County CPS agency, a local police or sheriff’s department, or a county probation department — all are required to accept reports and forward them appropriately.
Protections & Confidentiality:
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Reports made in good faith are protected; mandated reporters have immunity from civil or criminal liability for reporting.
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The reporter’s identity and report details are kept confidential to the extent allowed by law.
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 protecting the next generation
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Information updated on 8.17.2025
