South Carolina law requires that certain professionals report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. Because they have unique opportunities to observe and interact with children, the following professionals are mandated reporters of child abuse or neglect: physicians, nurses, dentists, optometrists, medical examiners or coroners or their employees, emergency medical services, mental health or allied health professionals, teachers, counselors, principals, school attendance officers, social or public assistance workers, substance abuse treatment staff, childcare workers, foster parents, police or law enforcement officers, juvenile justice workers, volunteer non-attorney guardians ad litem serving on behalf of the South Carolina Guardian ad Litem program or on behalf of Richland County CASA, undertakers, funeral home directors or their employees, film processors, computer technicians, judges, and clergy, including Christian Science Practitioners or religious healers (subject to laws governing privileged communication). The law encourages all persons to report. When to Report: Mandated reporters must report abuse or neglect when, in their professional capacity they receive information giving them reason to believe that a child’s physical or mental health has been or may be adversely affected by abuse or neglect. A decision to report must be based upon a reasonable belief that a child has been or may be abused or neglected. Thus, mandatory reporters need not have conclusive proof that a child has been abused or neglected prior to reporting abuse or neglect to the proper authorities. A person who is required to report and fails to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon conviction, he or she may be fined up to $500 or imprisoned up to six months, or both. As a volunteer of Community Initiatives, Inc., I am aware of and pledge to follow the guidelines regarding abuse, neglect, or harm as outlined in SC Code 63-7, known as the Children’s Code. *