Mandated reporters have which of the following under CANRA?
A. Immunity from criminal liability
B. Immunity from civil liability
C. Confidentiality
D. All of the above
E. A and C
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is D. All of the above.
Explanation:
The California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) mandates that certain professionals, known as mandated reporters, must report any suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. These professionals include healthcare workers, teachers, law enforcement officers, social workers, and others who work with children. The law is designed to protect children from harm and ensure that abuse or neglect is reported as soon as it is suspected.
Under CANRA, mandated reporters are provided specific protections to encourage compliance with the law and ensure that individuals can report suspected abuse or neglect without fear of retaliation or personal liability. These protections include:
A. Immunity from criminal liability:
Mandated reporters are granted immunity from criminal prosecution if they report suspected child abuse in good faith. This immunity ensures that individuals are not deterred from reporting for fear of legal consequences, as long as the report is made in a reasonable, good-faith manner.
B. Immunity from civil liability:
Similar to immunity from criminal liability, mandated reporters are also protected from civil lawsuits if they report suspected child abuse or neglect. This protection helps prevent individuals from being sued for defamation, negligence, or other claims as a result of reporting. The intent is to encourage the reporting of abuse without the fear of legal action.
C. Confidentiality:
CANRA also provides that the identity of the mandated reporter is kept confidential when a report is made, unless the reporter consents to disclosure or is ordered to disclose their identity in legal proceedings. This confidentiality helps protect the reporter from retaliation or harassment and encourages the reporting of suspected abuse or neglect without fear of being personally identified.
In summary, under CANRA, mandated reporters are protected in terms of immunity from criminal and civil liability, and their identity can remain confidential, thereby making it easier for professionals to fulfill their duty to report suspected child abuse or neglect. These protections are in place to prioritize the safety and well-being of children.