Michigan
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Michigan
Michigan defines child abuse (or neglect) as harm or threatened harm to a child’s health or welfare through nonaccidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse/exploitation, or maltreatment by a parent, guardian, other person responsible for the child’s health/welfare, a teacher, teacher’s aide, clergy member, or person age 18+ involved in a youth program.
(Source: Michigan Child Protection Law – MCL 722.622 and related sections.)
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Clergy are included among professions that are mandated reporters when acting in roles that bring them into contact with children (e.g., in a youth program) under MCL 722.623. Communications that fall under clergy-penitent (confessional) privilege may be exempt.
Mandatory Reporting Laws
Under Michigan law:
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A mandated reporter (including clergy in relevant roles) who has “reasonable cause to suspect” child abuse/neglect must immediately report by telephone or online to the centralized intake system of MDHHS.
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Within 72 hours of an oral or online report, a written report (Form DHS-3200) must be filed unless the report was already made via the online system.
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Failure to report when required may result in civil liability and a misdemeanor (up to 93 days in jail or fine up to $500) for knowing failure.
(Source: MDHHS Mandated Reporters page.)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Definitions include:
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Physical or mental injury inflicted non-accidentally
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Sexual abuse or exploitation
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Neglect or maltreatment (failure to provide adequate care, supervision)
Churches and faith-based organizations are encouraged to adopt safe-environment policies: background screening of staff/volunteers, training on recognizing signs of abuse, policies for supervision of minors, and displaying reporting information (hotline number). While the law lays out reporting duties rather than detailed prevention policies, MDHHS provides training resources.
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
In Michigan, school personnel — including teachers, school counselors, school administrators — are mandated reporters under MCL 722.623. Also, any person (not only mandated reporter) who suspects abuse or neglect may report under MCL 722.624.
(Source: Michigan Department of Education – Mandated Reporting.)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
School employees must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect by telephone or through the online reporting system (Central Intake 855-444-3911). A written report must follow within 72 hours unless online system suffices. Schools are expected to have internal procedures to ensure reporting is not delayed.
(Source: Michigan Department of Education Mandated Reporting page.)
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
Schools should use the statutory definitions for abuse and neglect (see above) when identifying concerns. Best practices include staff training on recognizing and reporting abuse, using background checks for staff/volunteers, establishing safe-environment protocols (e.g., two-adult rule for minors), age-appropriate prevention education, and ensuring reporting procedures emphasize immediate external reporting rather than internal investigation. MDHHS provides mandated-reporter resources and school guidance.
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Michigan
According to the Children’s Bureau data, in 2023 Michigan had 22,728 children identified as victims of maltreatment. Additionally, the MDHHS “Children’s Protective Services Data Summary” (FY 24) reported 18,351 referrals for investigation and investigation commenced within 24 hours at 98 %. These data underscore the ongoing child welfare challenges in Michigan and the importance of prevention, timely reporting, and collaboration across systems.
(Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services CPS Data Summary. )
How to make a report in the state of Michigan
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Michigan Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline (Centralized Intake): 1-855-444-3911 (24/7)
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If it’s an emergency (immediate danger), call 911 first.
Optional Online (Non-Emergency for Mandated Reporters):
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Michigan Online Reporting System (MORS) — mandated reporters can file through the portal instead of calling.
After Making the Call –
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If you made a phone report, you must submit a written report (Form DHS-3200) within 72 hours.
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If you used the online system, you do not need to file the DHS-3200 form.
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Do not email reports unless directed; use the proper delivery method indicated by state guidance.
Information to Provide:
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Child’s name, age, and location/address
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Description of suspected abuse or neglect (what was seen/heard)
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Names of parents/caregivers, if known
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Any immediate safety or medical concern
Additional Notes:
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All persons may report; certain individuals (“mandated reporters”) have special responsibilities under the law.
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Reports made in good faith are protected from civil or criminal liability.
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If you are unsure whether it meets the reporting criteria, when in doubt, report.
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
