Palm Beach State College Board Policy

Title: Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse, Abandonment and Neglect

Policy Number: 6Hx-18-7.02

Legal Authority: 1001.64 FS, 39.01 FS; 39.205 FS; 39.201 FS; FAC 6A-14.099

Date Adopted/Amended: Adopted 6/17/2025

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Palm Beach State College does not condone or tolerate abuse, abandonment, or neglect of a child committed on the property of the College or during any event or function sponsored by the College.

Any individual who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a caregiver, or is the victim of any form of abuse while in the care of an adult responsible for their welfare, is required to report such knowledge or suspicion immediately to Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) Abuse Hotline, local law enforcement authorities or to an administrator who serves Palm Beach State College with the title of College President; Vice President;  Associate Vice President; Provost; Special Assistant to the President; Dean; Human Resources Director; Equity Officer; Title IX Coordinator; Campus Safety and Risk Management Director; and Athletic Director.

Failure to report suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect as required by Florida law may result in criminal penalties, including a third-degree felony, up to five years in prison, and a $5,000 fine. The State Board of Education may also fine the College up to $1 million per incident if a College Administrator is found to have knowingly and willfully failed to report. Employees who fail to comply with this policy may face disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

The College strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who makes a good faith report of suspected child abuse, abandonment, or neglect. Under Section 39.203, Florida Statutes, individuals who report in good faith to the Florida Abuse Hotline or law enforcement are protected from civil or criminal liability.