Background
Many governors have noted widespread concern about reduced reporting of child abuse and neglect during stay-at-home orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. With schools closed and other mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect operating with limited capacity in many states, some states have seen reports of child abuse decline by 20-70 percent. In addition to children being less likely to encounter mandated reporters, families may be experiencing increased stress due to wage or job loss and may be spending additional, unstructured time together. Many governors have raised concerns that child abuse or neglect may go unnoticed by state agencies while schools and businesses remain closed.
All NGA COVID-19 memos can be found here, or visit COVID-19: What You Need To Know for current information on actions States/Territories are taking to address the COVID-19 pandemic; as well as advocacy, policy, and guidance documents for protecting public health and the economy.
