Is it true that federal law defines where maltreatment reports must be made?

Federal law does not explicitly define where reports of maltreatment must be made; this responsibility typically falls within state laws and regulations. Each state has its own guidelines for reporting maltreatment, which may include designated child protective services or adult protective services agencies. These state laws specify the procedures and requirements for reporting suspected maltreatment cases, ensuring that reports are handled according to local standards and contexts. Therefore, while federal law may provide overarching frameworks and protections, the specifics regarding reporting locations and processes are determined at the state level.