The Department of Human Services published a proposed rule (page 2) in the Arkansas Register that would add licensed massage therapists to the definition of mandated reporter. If you would like to submit comments in support of, or in opposition to, the proposed rule, email Mac.E.Golden@dhs.arkansas.gov before December 14.
Let’s look at how Arkansas defines a “mandated reporter” and what added responsibilities would be required of practitioners if this rule is adopted.
A mandated reporter is an individual recognized in the Child Maltreatment Reporting Act. Mandated reporters must immediately notify the Child Abuse Hotline or law enforcement if they:
- Have reasonable cause to suspect a child has experienced maltreatment
- Have reasonable cause to suspect a child died from maltreatment
- Have observed a child experiencing conditions or circumstances that could reasonably result in child maltreatment.
The proposed rule would make massage therapists mandated reporters like other professionals such as dentists, nurses, mental health professionals, osteopaths, and physicians. View page 13 of this document for a full list of mandated reporters.
Comments Due: December 14, 2024