Alternative Pathways to Child Abuse Prevention Act

This bill amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to create new pathways for families facing challenges like poverty, stress, or domestic violence to access community-based support instead of entering the child protective services system. It directs federal grants to states and tribes to fund local helplines, websites, and training programs that connect families to voluntary services - such as family strengthening programs or domestic violence resources - before they are referred to child welfare. Key provisions include requiring states to develop "alternative pathways" for mandated reporters to refer families to community support, and expanding research on reducing unnecessary CPS referrals. These changes directly affect families at risk of child welfare involvement, child welfare agencies, and community service providers.