Became Federal Public Law No.: 115-126 (on Feb. 14, 2018). Text available here: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/534- Per current federal regulations (as of February 14, 2018), reports of child abuse should be made to the local law enforcement agency or local child protective services agency that has jurisdiction to investigate reports of child abuse or to protect child abuse victims or to the FBI. These regulations have not yet been updated to reflect the recent change in the law. Until such time as the regulations are updated, U.S. Soccer will make reports to (1) local law enforcement where any alleged incident took place to the extent it can be determined and the incident occurred in the United States, (2) local law enforcement where the victim resides if different than (1), and (3) the FBI.
- Child abuse is defined as physical or mental injury, sexual abuse or exploitation, or negligent treatment of a child.
- An individual who is required, but fails, to report suspected child sexual abuse is subject to criminal penalties including fines and up to one (1) year in jail.
- These obligations are in addition to any Connecticut state law requirements that an individual may have in a particular jurisdiction.
The Law has a three-pronged approach:
1) Any adult interacting with amateur athletes in the program has a duty to report abuse and or suspected abuse within a 12 hour period (Connecticut). EVERY adult is a mandatory reporter.
2) The statute of limitations in CT is extended 30 years after the minor reaches the age of 18.
3) Limits an athlete under the age of 18 from being alone with an adult who is not their parent.
*What is an amateur athlete? Any child or minor under the age of 18. Legislation is available for download (click here).
There is new federal legislation that any coach (paid or unpaid) will be a mandatory reporter. The requirements for training have not been determined yet. For more info you can look at the CJSA’S
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS
Document - CJSA's SafeSport Policy
Connecticut Department of Children and Families: Children's Alliance
Document - State of Connecticut Safe Sport Policy - Child Abuse Prevention
Document - Fact Sheet: What is "Grooming"
Document - Guidelines for Camp Counselors