The New York Mandated Reporting Working Group (NY MRWG) is a collaborative of advocates, mandated reporters, legal professionals, researchers, and people impacted by the family policing system. Ranging from reformers to abolitionists, we are united by a common goal of developing policy solutions to end the harm of mandated reporting to Child Protective Services (CPS) and the investigations it triggers in communities statewide. Many of us use the term “family policing” because it more accurately reflects how the child welfare system is experienced by impacted communities. This system disproportionately surveils, criminalizes, and separates Black, Latine, and under-resourced families.

Mandated reporting is part of the surveillance arm of the family policing system. This practice is ineffective and punitive and not only fails to keep children safe and families supported, but weakens their stability and well-being. The NY MRWG is building public awareness about the reality of mandated reporting. We're committed to examining how the family policing system operates in New York State and identifying legislative solutions that would allow professionals to better support families in meeting their needs. We believe, and research supports, that a new approach grounded in collaboration and trust is needed to strengthen families.

Read our full “Who We Are” document in English or in Spanish.