A bill that passed the New York State Senate and Assembly would require anyone filing a child abuse report to identify themselves with the assurance of confidentiality. Gov. Kathy Hochul should sign the bill — but only if it is amended.

There are many instances of anonymous child abuse reports being filed on the state's hotline, 1-800-342-3720, that are deliberate efforts to harass someone. These false allegations not only drain resources and result in fewer caseworkers available to handle real claims, they protect those who make wrongful claims. The bill ends anonymous filings and requires anyone making a claim to provide their name and phone number if they want it investigated. Identities would be kept confidential and could only be released by a court order in limited circumstances. Ma

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