|
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Kevin Boyle
|
|
Rep. Kevin Boyle plans legislation to require
reporting abuse to proper authorities
HARRISBURG, Nov. 9 – State Rep. Kevin Boyle today announced his plan to introduce legislation aimed at ensuring that people who witness the abuse of a child report it to the proper authorities.
"In light of the alleged child sex abuse scandal at Pennsylvania State University, it is clear that a loophole exists in our law," Boyle said. "My legislation would close that loophole by requiring those who are aware of the abuse to report it to law enforcement authorities, rather than simply following an in-house chain of command."
Boyle's legislation would change current law so that staff members of institutions must immediately notify a law enforcement official.
Current law only requires that the abuse be reported to the person in charge of the institution, school, facility or agency or the designated agent of the person in charge.
"The current system, coupled with the inaction of various individuals has failed the alleged victims in the Jerry Sandusky case," Boyle said. "What's even worse is that those who stood by and said nothing about the allegations have been cleared of any wrongdoing. My bill will hold people accountable for reporting such future instances to the proper authorities."
###