Starting September 1, 2025, Colorado will implement significant updates to its child abuse and neglect mandatory reporting law under HB25-1188. Key changes include a new 24-hour reporting requirement, mandating that suspected abuse or neglect be reported within 24 hours of identification.
The law now applies only to information obtained in a professional capacity, such as by teachers, doctors, or coaches, and does not mandate reporting for information learned personally, though voluntary reporting is still permitted.
Victim advocates have been removed from the list of mandatory reporters. Additionally, reports cannot be based solely on bias related to a family’s race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or disability.
Lastly, mandatory reporters must file reports themselves and cannot delegate this responsibility. For more details on the law or to report suspected abuse in Mesa County, contact the hotline at 970-242-1211.