(Pierre, SD) — A bill in the state Senate would make coaches mandatory reporters of child abuse. The Senate is expected to debate the bill on Monday. It would force coaches to notify authorities of any instance of child abuse or neglect they suspect or see. Rep. Mary Fitzgerald introduced the bill and says it’s about accountability, prevention and protecting children from harm. The current list of mandatory reporters includes medical professionals, teachers, school counselors, law enforcement agents and coroners.
