Washington Legislature approves requirement for clergy to report child abuse
Washington State is set to require clergy members to report child abuse or neglect, even when disclosed in confession, following the approval of Senate Bill 5375. The bill, which passed with a 64-31 vote, aims to enhance child protection by including religious leaders among mandatory reporters, despite resistance from some lawmakers who argue it infringes on religious freedoms. If signed by Governor Bob Ferguson, Washington will join a small number of states without exemptions for confessional communications.