New Development: New York State Enacts Sweeping Changes to Child Abuse Laws

Child abuse, a harrowing issue that continues to afflict societies globally, has recently gained heightened attention in New York State (NYS). The recognition of child abuse as a growing problem has prompted legislative action, leading to the implementation of updated law aimed at staunchly addressing and preventing this pervasive issue. It has been signed into law amendments toSocial Services Law § 413requiring the addition of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma, Implicit Bias, and Identification of Child Abuse virtually within the New York State mandated Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect coursework. The law requires every person who has previously undergone this training to undergo the new updated training byApril 1, 2025.

The Updated Mandated Reporter Training Requirements: Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021 has modified Social Services Law § 413, introducing enhanced training obligations. This includes the incorporation of protocols aimed at mitigating implicit bias in decision-making, strategies foridentifying adverse childhood experiences, and guidelines for recognizing signs of abuse or maltreatment during virtual interactions within the new training coursework. This law requires that mandated reporters, including those who have previously undergone the current training, complete the updated training curriculum by April 1, 2025.

2-Hour Training related to child abuse is required for the following professions:

• • Physician

• • Certified Behavior Analyst Assistants

• • Chiropractors

• • Creative Arts Therapists

• • Dental Hygienists

• • Dentists

• • Licensed Behavior Analysts

• • Licensed Clinical Social Workers

• • Licensed Master Social Workers

• • Marriage and Family Therapists

• • Mental Health Counselors

• • Optometrists

• • Podiatrists

• • Psychoanalysts

• • Psychologists

• • Registered Nurses

• • Registered Physician Assistant

• • Surgeon

• • Medical Examiner

• • Coroner

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• • Dental Hygienist

• • Osteopath

• • Optometrist

• • Chiropractor

• • Podiatrist

• • Resident

• • Intern

• • Psychologist

• • Social Worker

• • Emergency Medical Technician

• • Licensed Creative Arts Therapist

• • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

• • Licensed Mental Health Counselor

• • Licensed Psychoanalyst

• • Licensed Behavior Analysts

• • Certified Behavior Analyst Assistants

• • Hospital Personnel engaged in the admission, examination, care, or treatment of persons

• • A Christian Science practitioner

• • School Official, which includes but is not limited to:
    • • School Teacher
    • • School Guidance Counselor
    • • School Psychologist
    • • School Social Worker
    • • School Nurse
    • • School Service Personnel
    • • School Administrator/Supervisors
    • • or other school personnel required to hold a teaching or administrative license or certificate

• • Social Services Worker

• • Director of a children’s overnight camp, summer day camp, or traveling summer day camp

• • Day Care Center Worker

• • School-age Child Care Worker; provider of family or group family day care

• • Employee or volunteer in a residential care facility

• • Child Care or Foster Care Worker

• • Mental Health Professional

• • Substance Abuse Counselor

• • Alcoholism Counselor

• • All persons credentialed by the NYS Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services

• • Peace Officer

• • Police Officer

• • District Attorney

• • Assistant District Attorney

• • Investigator employed in the Office of a District Attorney

• • Any other law enforcement official

Child abuse takes various forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. It leaves indelible scars on the lives of innocent children, affecting their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In response to the escalating cases of child abuse, NYS has taken proactive measures to curb this alarming trend. The updated law, which came into effect recently, signifies a crucial step in the state’s commitment to protecting its youngest and most vulnerable citizens. It encompasses stringent measures to identify and address instances of child abuse promptly. The legislation emphasizes the importance of early intervention, aiming to break the cycle of abuse before it causes irreparable harm.

One significant aspect of the updated law is its focus on prevention through education and awareness.  Mandated reporters are required to attend an updated training focusing on recognizing signs of abuse and the importance of reporting concerns, identify potential cases and respond appropriately, creating a protective network within institutions and diverse settings. The legislation also bolsters the efforts of child protective services and law enforcement agencies. The new training provides additional resources to ensuring to appropriate identification and interventions are swift and effective. Moreover, the updated law sends a clear message that child abuse will not be tolerated in NYS.

Due to unwanted societal trends, families facing financial difficulties may experience heightened tension, leading to a higher likelihood of abusive behavior. Additionally, the anonymity provided by online platforms has facilitated the proliferation of child exploitation, contributing to the rise in cases of sexual abuse. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue. Lockdowns and social isolation measures have intensified existing stressors, leading to a surge in domestic violence and child abuse cases. Additionally, vital support systems and monitoring mechanism has slowly been eroded with school closures during the pandemic. This absence has created a situation where instances of abuse are more likely to go unnoticed.

The implementation of the new law in NYS reflects a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against child abuse. By addressing the issue comprehensively, from prevention through education to robust legal measures and community engagement, the state is actively working towards creating a safer environment for its children. As we move forward, it is essential to continue raising awareness, supporting victims, and collectively striving for a future where every child can grow up free from the shadow of abuse.  Enroll in the updated online training by April 1, 2025 with #1AAA CE Trainings: eetsonline.com/ce