Louisiana law protects children whose physical, mental, or emotional health or safety is seriously endangered by abuse, neglect, or exploitation. This includes physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and other conduct that substantially harms or threatens a child’s well-being. These broad definitions support intervention and reporting obligations.

(Source: Louisiana Children’s Code Title VI, Article 601; Louisiana DCFS definitions of abuse/neglect.)

Under the Louisiana Children’s Code, members of the clergy (such as priests, rabbis, duly ordained ministers, and Christian Science practitioners) are mandated reporters required to report suspected child abuse or neglect. They must report whenever they have cause to believe a child’s health or welfare is endangered. However, communications received under the Sacramental Seal of confession or similar protected communications are not subject to mandatory reporting, provided the communication meets the statutory criteria for confidentiality. Clergy should still encourage reporting to civil authorities when they hear of abuse outside privileged contexts.

(Source: Louisiana Children’s Code Article 603 (definition of mandatory reporters).)

Mandatory reporters — including clergy — must immediately report suspected abuse or neglect via the Louisiana Child Abuse/Neglect Hotline at 1-855-4LA-KIDS (855-452-5437). Oral reports must be followed by a written report within five days through the DCFS Mandated Reporter Portal or by mail if needed. Reports should be made to DCFS for incidents involving caretakers; if the suspected perpetrator is not a caregiver, reporting to law enforcement is appropriate. Failure to report is a criminal offense under state law.

(Source: Louisiana Children’s Code Articles 609 and 610; Louisiana DCFS reporting procedures.)

Louisiana statutes include teachers, school administrators, school staff, childcare providers, and organizational/youth activity providers among the categories of mandatory reporters who must report suspected abuse or neglect. School personnel are required to report when they have cause to believe a child’s well-being is seriously endangered. Volunteer school personnel who meet these categories are also included.

(Source: Louisiana Children’s Code Article 603; DCFS mandated reporter list.)

When school personnel reasonably suspect abuse or neglect, they must immediately report via the statewide hotline or in person at a DCFS office. Emergency or suspected juvenile sex trafficking must be reported promptly via the hotline. Oral reports by mandated reporters must be followed by a written report within five days through the Louisiana DCFS Mandated Reporter Portal or mailed to the centralized intake unit. Reporting to school administrators does not satisfy the legal duty unless the report also goes to DCFS or law enforcement. Failure to report carries criminal penalties.

(Source: Louisiana Children’s Code Articles 609–610; DCFS mandated reporter guidance.)