Mandated Reporter (Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act)

Department: Human Resources
Effective Date: 5/2019
Revised Date: 
Cabinet Approval Date: 5/22/2019
Next Review Date: 5/2021
Policy: Employee Handbook
Responsible Cabinet Member: Associate Vice President of Human Resources
Approved By: Sheila Quirk-Bailey 

Operational Standard/Purpose

It is the policy of ICC to be in full compliance with The Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act, Public Act 97-0711.  The Act requires mandated reporters to immediately report suspected child abuse to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

Scope/Applicability

Refer to the Employee Handbook for additional information.

Procedures

  1. All employees are required to sign and have in their personnel file the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Acknowledgement of Mandated Reporter Status form. Completion of the DCFS form is required for all employees before they begin working. It is legal requirement and is considered a condition of employment.
  2. All employees are required to participate in the Illinois DCFS online interactive training module on its website.  Online training is assigned to thenew employee during the orientation process.
  3. Mandated Reporters are required to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately. Willful failure to report suspected incidents of child abuse or neglect is a misdemeanor (first violation) or a class 4 felony (second or subsequent violation). To report child abuse or neglect:
    1. Follow the steps outlined at the DCFS website or report by calling the Child Abuse Hot Line (800-252-2873) and submitting a Written Confirmation of Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect Report to DCFS within 48 hours, utilizing the form and instructions received from the Hot Line. You may also review the User Manual.
    2. Employees making reports are encouraged to notify their supervisor and/or the designated Mandated Reporter program administrator. However, such internal notification is subject to the discretion of the reporter. Contact the designated administrator ICC Police Chief at 309-694-5225 with any questions.
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