Reporting Requirements
Texas law says anyone who thinks a child is being abused, neglected, or exploited must report it to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). A person who reports abuse in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability. DFPS keeps the name of the person making the report confidential. Anyone who does not report suspected abuse can be held liable for a misdemeanor or felony. Reporting suspected abuse makes it possible for a family to get help.
Mandatory Reporting
A mandated reporter is a person who is required by law to report reasonable suspicions of abuse. Texas law requires anyone with knowledge of suspected child abuse or neglect to report it to the appropriate authorities. The mandatory reporting requirement applies to all camp directors and designated individuals.
If you believe a child is being abused or neglected, you are required to report it to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Reports may be made at any time to DFPS by phone at 1-800-252-5400 or online at Texas Abuse Hotline (www.txabusehotline.org). The hotline and website are available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week. The University’s policy prohibits retaliation against good faith reporting of suspected abuse or neglect.
In addition to notifying DFPS and/or law enforcement, the University also requires that designated individuals report any suspected abuse or neglect of minors on University property to the associate vice president and Title IX coordinator.
In the event of an emergency or if you witness a crime in progress immediately call 911.