Code Section
Family 261.001 et seq.

What Constitutes Abuse
Inflicting or failing to reasonably prevent others from inflicting mental or emotional injury impairing child’s growth, development, or psychological functioning; physical injury resulting in substantial harm, or which is at variance with explanation given; sexual abuse, exploitation, use of controlled substance resulting in mental or physical harm to child

Mandatory Reporting Required By
“Professionals” including teachers, nurses, doctors, day care employees, employees of state-licensed or certified organizations with direct contact with children, clergy, mental health professional, attorney, reproductive health clinic worker, any person

Basis of Report of Abuse/Neglect
Having cause 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
Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services

Penalty for Failure to Report or False Reporting
Class B misdemeanor Physical injury resulting in substantial harm; mental or emotional injury; failure to prevent injury; harmful sexual conduct or pornography; failure to prevent use of controlled substance by child False report: Class A misdemeanor