Which agency is responsible for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect?

Child protective services (CPS) is specifically designated as the agency responsible for reporting and investigating suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. This agency operates at both the state and local levels, ensuring that allegations of harm to children are taken seriously and addressed promptly.

CPS has the authority to intervene in situations where the safety and well-being of a child are at risk. They provide a range of services including investigations of reports, intervention services, family support, and foster care placement if necessary. Their primary focus is the protection of children and supporting families to ensure safe living conditions.

While social services agencies, family services divisions, and state welfare departments may all play roles in supporting families and children, they do not focus exclusively on the safety and welfare of children as CPS does. Their functions can often overlap with child protection work but do not have the specific mandate to handle abuse and neglect reports as child protective services do.