Inside Mandated Reporting Reform in Los Angeles County

“Earlier this year, Los Angeles County embarked on a far-ranging reform of its network of mandated reporters — professionals who are obligated by law to call child protective services when they suspect child abuse.

A motion endorsed by county leaders calls for reassessing the role of mandated reporters, citing ‘the child welfare system’s over-surveillance and harm of marginalized communities of color’ as a result of referrals from teachers, police officers and medical professionals. Advocates in New York City and across the nation have also identified mandated reporting as a pivotal driver of racial disparities in foster care and unnecessary investigations.”