In recent years, child welfare (CW) agencies across the U.S. have initiated or strengthened strategies to address the commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) in their state ranging from identification to service responses. Much of this has been in response to requirements in federal legislation, such as Family First, JVTA, Preventing Sex Trafficking and TVPA. However, CW response models vary greatly. This presentation addresses CW’s role in responding to CSEC through the lens of federal requirements and the broader lens of safe harbor principles. Presenters will discuss common questions about CW’s response and address policy and practice related to child protection screening, investigations, case management, placement, multidisciplinary approaches, and specialized services for CSEC.