Bill > H100

This bill expands the definition of "mandated reporter" under Massachusetts law, meaning more individuals will be legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the authorities. Specifically, it adds "a state employee who, in his professional capacity, witnesses child abuse, including sexual abuse" to the list of individuals who are mandated reporters, alongside existing categories like the child advocate. This change aims to increase the protection of children by ensuring that more state employees who encounter abuse in their professional roles are obligated to report it to the Department of Children and Families (DCF), which is the state agency responsible for child welfare.