Opinion No.

Honorable Raymond W. Vowell Commissioner Department of Public Welfare Austin, Texas 78701

Re: Extent of child abuse reporting statute.

Dear Mr. Vowell:

You have requested our opinion concerning the scope of Texas law regarding the reporting of child abuse.

Section 34.01 of the Family Code provides:

Any person having cause to believe that a child's physical or mental health or welfare has been or may be adversely affected by abuse or neglect shall report in accordance with Section 34.02 of this code.

Section 34.02 provides for reporting of abuse or neglect, the violation of compulsory school…