I can tell you that working in the schools in the state of Maryland, we not only have to report abuse, but SUSPECTED abuse. The state makes it clear that it is NOT our job to determine if abuse actually occurred. That is the state's job to determine.
And I need to personally report it to the state. I cannot just report it to the school system. So, there can be no intermediary. If it were to be found out that I knew of or suspected abuse, but did not report, then I lose my job.
For example, if a child repeatedly shows up at school with bruises, I would have to report.
If I overheard students talking about abuse, I would have to report.
I think this is what makes me the angriest about the Witnesses. They think they can decide whether or not there was abuse.
That's not their job.
I know teachers and healthcare providers have to report by law in Maryland, but, unfortunately, I don't think clergy are mandatory reporters.
This needs to change.