We don't talk anymore: How stronger interstate communication improves child maltreatment investigations and prevention

Abstract

Child Maltreatment is a widespread childhood public health issue. A possible solution to help alleviate child maltreatment as a public health issue is the improvement of interstate communication among Child Protective Agencies, holding interstate perpetrators accountable for their abuse and neglect of children. The government recognized the need for interstate communication in 2006, but a child maltreatment registry was never created. Interstate communication among agencies is almost non-existent. This Note proposes establishing a National Registry for Founded Cases of Child Maltreatment to boost interstate communication among different Child Welfare agencies to improve investigative techniques and prevention strategies.