Bill > A00499

This bill expands mandatory reporting requirements for suspected child abuse or maltreatment in New York State by adding several new categories of professionals who must report such suspicions. Specifically, the bill requires college coaches, athletic directors, professors, graduate assistants, college administrators, and college presidents to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment when they encounter it in their professional capacity. The bill also broadens the definition of summer day camps to include camps with educational programs or activities and nonpassive recreational activities with significant injury risk. Mandatory reporters are now required to make a report when they have reasonable cause to suspect child abuse or maltreatment, whether they encounter the child directly or through a parent or guardian providing information that, if true, would indicate abuse. This expansion of reporting requirements aims to increase protection for children by ensuring more professionals are legally obligated to report potential abuse, particularly in educational and camp settings. The bill will take effect 120 days after becoming law, with provisions for immediate preparation of necessary rules and regulations.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A499