Prevent Child Abuse in Montana
How do I get online child abuse prevention training and background checks?
Compass Abuse Prevention Services offers online child abuse prevention training and background checks.
What is child abuse and neglect in Montana?
According to Montana law, “child abuse or neglect” means actual physical or psychological harm to a child; substantial risk of physical or psychological harm to a child; or abandonment.
The term includes:
- actual physical or psychological harm to a child or substantial risk of physical or psychological harm to a child by the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the child’s welfare;
- exposing a child to the criminal distribution of dangerous drugs, as prohibited by 45-9-101, the criminal production or manufacture of dangerous drugs, as prohibited by 45-9-110, or the operation of an unlawful clandestine laboratory, as prohibited by 45-9-132; or
- any form of child sex trafficking or human trafficking.
According to the Child Welfare League of America, there were 3,777 victims of abuse or neglect in Montana in 2020, a rate of 16.4 per 1,000 children. This is a 21.2% increase since 2016.
Who is a mandated reporter according to MT state requirements?
A physician, member of hospital staff, coroner, mental health professional, dentist, Christian Science practitioner, religious healers, school teachers and officials, social workers, day care/child care workers, foster care worker, clergy (unless privileged communication), law enforcement officer, guardian ad litem or a court appointed advocate is considered a mandatory reporter in MT.
How do I report child or vulnerable adult abuse in Montana?
To report a possible case of child abuse or neglect, call toll-free 1 (866) 820-5437.
To report vulnerable adult abuse, call 1 (844) 277-9300 or make an online report.
How do I contact the MT Department of Public Health and Human Services?
Contact the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Child and Family Services
PO Box 8005
Helena MT 59604-8005
(406) 841-2400
Disclaimer: Please ensure the information and courses meet requirements for your organization and circumstances and align with what your state Department of Public Health and Human Services requires. The state requirements and child abuse and human trafficking statistics listed on this page are current as of February 21st, 2023 to meet the best information available. State requirements may change and it is your responsibility to know your state mandated reporter requirements and the process for online child abuse prevention training. Compass Abuse Prevention Services can not guarantee acceptance by your school, organization, or state DPHHS. If there is a child abuse emergency, call 911 immediately.