Is fetal abuse subject to mandated reporting?

Fetal abuse, which can refer to neglect or harm towards a fetus due to the mother's actions or substance abuse during pregnancy, is a complex topic in the context of mandated reporting. Mandated reporting laws generally require professionals to report suspected abuse or neglect of minors, yet the legal definition of a child often begins after birth, which is why many jurisdictions do not classify fetal abuse as actionable under mandated reporting laws.

Option B states that fetal abuse is not subject to mandated reporting, which aligns with the understanding that these laws are typically directed towards cases involving children after they are born. Many states do not include an unborn fetus under the definition of a child for the purposes of mandatory reporting laws, meaning that health professionals may not be required to report suspected fetal abuse.

While there are certainly nuances, such as maternal substance abuse laws in some places that could tighten or expand reporting requirements, the general consensus across many jurisdictions leans towards the conclusion that fetal abuse does not typically require mandated reporting, reinforcing the answer as correct.