What happens if I fail to report an instance of child abuse, neglect or a reportable offense?

What if I fail to report and are there legal protections for school employees filing mandatory reports?

The penalties for failing to report:

• It is a Class 6 felony to fail to report "reportable offenses."  The potential penalty is up to 1 1/2 years in prison and a substantial fine.
• It is a misdemeanor to fail to report child abuse and neglect.  The potential penalty is up to six months in jail and a fine.

In Arizona there is legal protection for a mandatory reporter who files a report.  Arizona state statute (A.R.S. 13-3620) provides that a person who furnishes a report is immune from any civil or criminal liability unless the person acted with malice.

Failure to Report from UA College of Education on Vimeo.