Oregon
curated resources for Christian ministries striving to prevent child abuse
What is Considered Child Abuse in the State of Oregon
Under Oregon law (ORS Chapter 419B), child abuse includes non-accidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect or maltreatment, threat of harm, and other situations where a child’s health or safety is endangered.
(Source: Oregon Revised Statutes, Chapter 419B – Child Abuse Reporting Law. )
Requirements for Churches and Clergy
Members of the clergy are mandatory reporters in Oregon. According to ORS 419B.010, any public or private official (which includes clergy) who has reasonable cause to believe a child has been abused must report. However, there is an exception: clergy are not required to report information that was communicated to them in a privileged context (e.g., confession) if that communication is protected under the state’s privilege laws.
(Source: Child Welfare Information Gateway – Oregon clergy reporting.)
Mandatory Reporting Laws
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When a mandatory reporter (such as clergy) has reasonable cause to believe abuse occurred, they must immediately make a report to the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) via its Centralized Child Abuse Reporting System or to law enforcement.
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The report should include, if known, the names and addresses of the child, caregivers, the child’s age, the nature and extent of abuse (including previous incidents), and any information to help identify the perpetrator.
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Reporters acting in good faith are granted immunity from civil or criminal liability.
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Failure to report is a “Class A violation” under Oregon law.
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
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Abuse / maltreatment definitions in Oregon include physical injury, mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, neglect or failure to provide appropriate care, and exposure to harmful environments.
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Churches and faith-based organizations are encouraged to adopt safe-environment policies, such as training clergy and volunteers to recognize signs of abuse, maintaining clear internal reporting procedures aligned with state law, supervising minors responsibly, and making reporting information readily accessible (e.g., hotline number). While the statute focuses on reporting, state guidance and child-welfare organizations support these prevention measures.
(Source: Church Preventions)
SCHOOL GUIDELINES
Who Must Report in Schools?
School personnel (teachers, school employees, administrators) are among the mandated reporters under Oregon law (ORS 419B.005 and ORS 419B.010) when they have reasonable cause to suspect a child has been abused or neglected.
(Source: Oregon Department of Human Services – Reporting Child Abuse. )
Mandatory Reporting Laws
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When school personnel suspect abuse or neglect, they must immediately report to DHS or law enforcement, using the state’s centralized reporting system.
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The report content should follow ORS 419B.015: include child’s and parent’s identifying info, nature and extent of abuse, and any relevant observations.
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If the abuse was alleged in a school setting (or school-sponsored activity), DHS and law enforcement coordinate the investigation, and DHS notifies the Department of Education as required by ORS 419B.020.
(Source: ORS 419B.015 – Report form / content. )
Definitions and Prevention Requirements
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Schools should apply the same statutory definitions of abuse/maltreatment (physical, sexual, neglect, threat of harm) when identifying concerns.
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Prevention best practices: provide mandated-reporter training for staff, establish internal protocols that emphasize prompt external reporting (not just internal investigation), conduct background checks for personnel working with minors, supervise students carefully, and post or communicate reporting information (hotline) to staff and students. Oregon’s “Erin’s Law” toolkit for schools supports these practices.
(Source: NDCC Title 15.1, § 15.1-19-29 – School reporting training requirement.)
Public Health Context: Child Abuse in Oregon
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The Oregon Department of Human Services operates a 24/7 centralized child abuse hotline: 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).
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When a report is made, DHS or law enforcement must immediately initiate an investigation to assess the nature and cause of the abuse.
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If the alleged abuse occurred in a school or child-care facility, the Department of Early Learning and Care or Department of Education may be notified as part of the investigation.
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Reports made in good faith are protected; reporters cannot be held civilly or criminally liable for making a report.
(Source: Public Health Context Oregon)
How to make a report in the state of Oregon
Every state has their own process for filing reports involving abuse. See the below for your states guidance.
Call Immediately:
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Oregon Child Abuse Hotline: 1-855-503-SAFE (1-855-503-7233) — available 24/7 / 365 days a year
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If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
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You may also contact local law enforcement (local police, sheriff, county juvenile department, or Oregon State Police) or your local Department of Human Services (DHS) office.
After Making the Call –
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The hotline screens the report; if necessary, local DHS or law enforcement will follow up.
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Written reports are not always required — the oral/phone report via the Hotline is considered sufficient under Oregon law.
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Note: If you’re a “mandated reporter,” your obligation is immediate and continuous.
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Do not rely on email for initial reports. Use the Hotline, phone, or in-person contact with DHS or law enforcement.
What Information to Provide:
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Child’s name, age, and location/address (if known)
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What you observed or learned — describe suspected abuse or neglect (physical injuries, neglect, statements from the child, etc.)
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Names of parents or caregivers, if known
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Any immediate safety or medical concerns — injuries, danger, or risk to the child.
Who Must Report (Mandatory Reporters):
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Many professionals are legally required to report if they suspect abuse or neglect. This includes, but is not limited to:
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Educators and school staff
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Health care providers (doctors, nurses, etc.)
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Child-care providers
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Social workers and counselors
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Law enforcement
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Clergy
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Foster care providers and staff of related agencies
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The obligation applies 24/7 — even outside work hours.
Legal Protections & Reporting Encouragement:
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Anyone can make a report — not just mandated reporters. Concerned citizens are encouraged to call if they suspect abuse or neglect.
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Reporters acting in good faith are protected by law — they cannot be sued civilly or criminally for making a report with reasonable suspicion.
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
