Legislation fixes issue brought to light by Nassar assault investigation

State Rep. Beth Griffin, R-Mattawan, testifies in support of her bipartisan plan to add athletic trainers and physical therapists to the list of professionals who are required to report evidence of child abuse, neglect and sexual abuse. She is joined by Rep. Kristy Pagan, D-Canton, left.

State Rep. Beth Griffin today testified before the House Judiciary Committee in support of her bipartisan plan to fix one of the problems brought to light by the House’s inquiry into the handling of the Larry Nassar sexual assault investigation.

Griffin, of Mattawan, said her solution better protects Michigan children by increasing the number of authority figures who are required to report evidence of child abuse, neglect and sexual abuse. As a former teacher, Griffin herself was a mandatory reporter.

“In many cases, trainers and physical therapists are in the best position to identify abuse or neglect,” said Griffin, who was a competitive gymnast as a child and has also coached youth sports, including gymnastics. “These adults spend a significant amount of time with student athletes, and in many cases are even closer to students than teachers.”

Current law requires a number of licensed professionals – including teachers, doctors, social workers and dentists – to report signs of abuse to the proper authorities. Griffin’s plan, House Bill 4376, adds athletic trainers, physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who work with K-12 and college athletes to the list.

“Recent events have made it clear that sometimes abuse goes unreported or is overlooked,” Griffin said. “If we ensure more people are proactive in identifying and reporting abuse it will better protect our children.”

A separate measure co-sponsored by Griffin would ensure people who work in the required professions are properly trained to understand the duties and responsibilities of being a mandatory reporter. The bills are part of a larger package designed to protect Michigan children from sexual abuse and assault.

House Bills 4376-77 remain under consideration by the House Judiciary Committee.

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