Bishops sue to overturn new WA law requiring clergy to report child abuse

Washington Catholic bishops filed a lawsuit against a new law requiring clergy to report child abuse disclosed in confession, arguing it infringes on their First Amendment rights. The plaintiffs, including Archbishop Paul Etienne and Bishops Joseph Tyson and Thomas Daly, assert that the law forces priests to choose between adhering to sacred vows and facing legal punishment. They seek to have the law invalidated and to prevent any criminal investigations against clergy for non-disclosure. The bishops contend that existing diocesan policies provide adequate protection for children without undermining religious practices. Attorney General Bob Ferguson criticized the lawsuit, stating it defends individuals who abuse children.

The law, signed on May 2 and effective July 27, adds clergy to the list of mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse. It does not exempt disclosures made during confession, although clergy retain the privilege not to testify in court. The bishops argue that the law violates constitutional principles regarding the separation of church and state.