CENTRE– The Children’s Advocacy Center of Cherokee County is urging residents and professionals who work with children to understand changes to Alabama’s mandatory reporting law.
The changes took effect October 1, 2026. They clarify when mandated reporters must act and establish a 72-hour deadline for a written follow-up report.
According to the CAC’s guidance, mandated reporters must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Alabama Department of Human Resources or law enforcement. They must then submit a written report to the same agency within 72 hours of the oral report.
However, the written-report deadline does not provide a waiting period for making the initial report. That first report must happen immediately.
Suspicion Is Enough to Make a Report
The revised law requires action when a mandated reporter knows or suspects that a child is experiencing abuse or neglect. It also covers receiving a third-party report of suspected abuse or neglect.
In addition, the duty applies when other information would lead a reasonable person to believe or suspect abuse or neglect.
Mandated reporters include doctors, nurses, public and private K-12 school employees, social workers, day care workers, and other groups specified in law. Meanwhile, DHR encourages anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or neglect to make a report.
The CAC also cautions reporters against investigating allegations themselves or assuming that notifying a supervisor fulfills their responsibility. Its message is to make the report directly so the appropriate authorities can respond.
For written reports to DHR, the department provides Form 1593 and instructions. However, DHR directs reporters to mail or fax the form after making the oral report, rather than emailing it.
Cherokee County Reporting Contacts
The CAC is also reminding residents that Cherokee County DHR’s updated main telephone number is 256-926-0004. WEIS previously reported the number change in September.
The center’s notice lists 256-927-3938 for local law enforcement, which the sheriff’s office also identifies as an after-hours dispatch number. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
For information about reporting requirements, contact the Children’s Advocacy Center at 256-927-2111 or visit cherokeecountycac.org.
You must be logged in to post a comment.