The key Federal legislation addressing child abuse and neglect is the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA).

CAPTA provides Federal funding and guidance to States in support of prevention, assessment, investigation, prosecution, and treatment activities and also provides grants to public agencies and nonprofit organizations, including Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations, for demonstration programs and projects. Additionally, CAPTA identifies the Federal role in supporting research, evaluation, technical assistance, and data collection activities; establishes the Office on Child Abuse and Neglect; and establishes a national clearinghouse of information relating to child abuse and neglect. CAPTA also sets forth a Federal definition of child abuse and neglect.

Most states receive funding through CAPTA for Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Grants (CBCAP, Title II of CAPTA) which fund many education and support programs.  CAPTA is currently up for re-authorization where there is a large push from advocates to increase funding. Learn More

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