Who is NOT considered a mandated reporter according to the standard definitions?

In Minnesota, mandated reporters are individuals who are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. The definition of mandated reporters typically includes professionals who work closely with children and have a responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.

Off-duty law enforcement officers do not fall under the standard definitions of mandated reporters. Their obligation to report suspicions of abuse or neglect typically applies when they are on duty or acting in their official capacity. In contrast, teachers, school staff, and medical personnel are all designated as mandated reporters because they frequently interact with children and are in a position to notice signs of abuse or neglect.

Parents and guardians, while they have a role in advocating for the safety of their children, are not considered mandated reporters in the legal sense since they are not professionals required by law to report suspicions of abuse outside their own children. Thus, the correct identification of off-duty law enforcement officers as not being mandated reporters aligns with the standard definitions in Minnesota laws.