Code Section
20-7-490, et seq.

What Constitutes Abuse
Child whose death results from or whose physical or mental health or welfare is harmed or threatened with harm including physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of excessive corporal punishment, sexual abuse/exploitation, neglect or abandonment, encouraging delinquency

Mandatory Reporting Required By
Physician, nurse, dentist, coroner, EMT, mental health or allied health professional, clergy, Christian Science practitioner, religious healer, school teacher/counselor, social or public assistance worker, child care or day care center worker, police or law enforcement officer, undertaker, funeral home director/employee, judge, optometrist, film processor

Basis of Report of Abuse/Neglect
Having reason to believe that a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by abuse or neglect

To Whom Reported
County Department of Social Services or law enforcement agency in county where child resides or is found

Penalty for Failure to Report or False Reporting
Failure to report: misdemeanor, and fine up to $500 and/or jail up to 6 months; False report: subject to civil action for actual & punitive damages, costs and attorney’s fees