Potential Indicators of Concern

While these indicators may not be considered abuse or neglect, we encourage you to report any suspicions by calling 855-444-3911.

Head Lice Issues 

An allegation of neglect based solely on a child having head lice is not appropriate for a CPS investigation. This condition could arise in any number of ways and is not, in and of itself, an indicator of neglect. 

Therapy Issues 

There are times when a child's behavior is a concern and may need further evaluation by a medical professional. If mandated reporters determine psychological help may be needed for a child, they should provide that information to the parent. It is up to the parent and/or guardian to follow through with that information and make an appropriate decision for their child. 

Medical Issues 

• Immunizations-CPS is not authorized to investigate complaints (usually received from health care providers) that allege parents are failing or refusing to obtain immunizations for their children. The Michigan Public Health Code provides exceptions to the immunization requirements.
  
• Medication-CPS is not responsible for investigating complaints that allege parents are failing or refusing to provide their children with psychotropic medication such as Ritalin. 

School Truants and Runaways 

Routine complaints on school truants and runaways are not appropriate for CPS investigation. Truancy and running are not in themselves synonymous with child abuse or neglect. 

Michigan's Safe Delivery Act 

Under Michigan's Safe Delivery of Newborns law, a parent can anonymously surrender an infant, from birth to 72 hours of age, to an Emergency Service Provider (ESP). An ESP is a uniformed or otherwise identified employee or contractor of a fire department, hospital or police station that is inside the premises and on duty or a paramedic or emergency medical technician responding to a 911 call. 

According to the law, the parent has the choice to leave the infant without giving any identifying information to the ESP. While a parent may remain anonymous, he or she is encouraged to provide family and medical background that could be useful to the baby in the future. 

Once a newborn is in the custody of an ESP, the baby is taken to a hospital for an examination. If there are no signs of abuse and/or neglect, temporary protective custody is given to a private adoption agency for placement with an approved adoptive family. If the examination reveals signs of abuse and/or neglect, hospital personnel will initiate a complaint to Children's Protective Services. See the Safe Delivery Web site for more information on the Safe Delivery Act. 

Mandated Reporter's Resource Guide 

View the Mandated Reporter's Resource Guide for more detailed information.