re How Mandatory Reporting Punishes Poor Families — ProPublica
separate out intentional abuse (physical, sexual) and consider it more seriously
divide direct abuse (done by parent) and indirect abuse (a result of parent needing help)
fund separate family help non-profit(s) that can take in referrals
-could do longer-term and less formal investigations
-have help-first model, wouldn't have obligation to remove children
-would communicate w/agency and do case hand-offs
make "mandatory" reporting only apply to clear-cut cases
not a zero-cost (to families or the state) to do investigations or cases where innocence is found
also, provide financial help like what foster parents receive