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County highlights CPS activity and Family Assessment Response after state law changes on anonymous reports
Summary
Orange County staff told the Human Services Committee that CPS handled 254 traditional responses and 109 FAR cases in December, that FAR handles many non-imminent-risk family situations, and that a recent state law removes the general option for anonymous child abuse reports, with a narrow exception for reporters believed to be under 18.
Lacey Trimble reported that Child Protective Services handled 254 traditional responses and 109 Family Assessment Responses (FAR) in December, and that "40 percent of their child protective reports" are routed to FAR. She explained FAR is voluntary and targets cases such as school refusal or poverty-driven needs where there is not imminent risk to a child.
Trimble said Governor Hochul signed legislation to change child abuse reporting by removing the option of anonymous reports in New York State, with a carved exception when the report taker appears to be under age 18, and that the county is still awaiting state guidance on implementation. Committee members sought clarification on FAR criteria and were told the county assesses referrals from the state's central registry on a case-by-case basis.
