As we move forward to uphold Penn State’s core values of trust, honor and integrity, one of the major aspects that we have been called upon to do is to assess our institutional culture. Changes to how things operate at our university at all levels are being addressed. Implementing the appropriate measures established by President Erickson and his administration will help guide our university’s future. However, when the heart of the issue of child abuse is examined, there is a wrinkle in public policy that must be recognized and dealt with. This petition will demonstrate that Penn State students will spearhead the movement calling upon our officials to advocate for stronger child abuse laws. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, currently, only 18 states require ALL adults to report incidences of child abuse. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not one of them. In addition, only 17 states require reporting specifically to law enforcement. This lack of uniformity creates confusion about mandatory reporting requirements that can lead to the endangerment of children. The Child Abuse Reporting Enforcement (CARE) Act was introduced in 2011. The CARE Act requires all states to mandate the reporting of child abuse to law enforcement and child protection agencies. Strengthening and standardizing state child abuse reporting laws will be crucial in preventing future cases. We urge that our U.S. Senators Bob Casey and Pat Toomey both co-sponsor the CARE Act and that U.S. Representative Glenn Thompson introduce a similar proposal in the House of Representatives. The only way for Penn State students to be heard by our public officials is if WE speak up. In a time when the public is watching, this is our time. By joining this cause in support of the CARE Act, we are asking for regulations that will ensure that every child across the nation can live in a society where they feel safe.