When you send your child to summer camp, you do so with the expectation that they will be protected and well cared for. While this is not always the case, this is a reasonable assumption, and California has several laws in place to support your child’s safety at camp.
The California summer camp abuse lawyer at The Senator’s Firm stays up to date on the requirements and expectations of camps in our state to provide the most comprehensive and current legal representation possible.
California State Camp Requirements
The state of California has imposed several requirements and guidelines when it comes to those who interact with our children. According to the American Camp Association (ACA), many California camps must comply with the following:
- Licensing required for California resident camps and Los Angeles County day camps that are operating for more than 4 weeks in a 12-month period
- Los Angeles camps are required to register with the county DPH if they are active for 4 weeks or less in a 12-month period.
- Criminal background checks through the Department of Justice
- Allowed to complete FBI background checks
- Buildings that meet code and basic safety standards
- Staff training for activity-specific skills, child protection, and first aid
For the camps that require licensing, this can be done through the local California Health Department. The California Department of Public Health oversees regulations for organized camps. Additionally, all organized camps should have a qualified health supervisor on site.
Camp Accreditation vs. Licensing
For a camp to be open, it must meet the basic health and safety standards set by the California DPH. However, some camps will seek higher certifications from regulatory bodies like the ACA, which represent a greater dedication to protecting our kids. However, accreditations, unlike licensing, are not state-mandated.
The state requirements are minimal when it comes to how camps are run and how our children are protected. For example, while we all may think that it’s a given to have an anti-bullying policy, this is not required by the state. However, it is a requirement of the ACA accreditation.
Mandated Reporting
In an attempt to protect children from physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) charges individuals who work closely with children as mandated reporters. This means that camp counselors, administrators, and often volunteers have a legal obligation to report concerns of suspected or confirmed child abuse or neglect as soon as reasonably possible.
California mandated reporters are not required to, and should not, investigate the situation or gather any further details regarding the suspected abuse. Instead, they should simply provide the information they have and allow Child Protective Services to determine the best course of action. This takes responsibility off the reporter and is meant to ensure that any concerns of abuse are brought to the authorities.
If a mandated reporter had reason to suspect the abuse of your child and failed to report it, they may face criminal and civil liability that can result in fines ranging from $1000-$5000, imprisonment for 6-12 months, or both.
Speaking with an attorney can help you determine whether your child’s camp failed in their basic duties to protect your child, and help you explore your options.