Washington's governor signed a bill into law mandating that clergy report child abuse, even if the information is obtained during confession. This new law removes the previous exemption for information obtained solely through confession, making clergy mandatory reporters. The Diocese of Spokane, however, stated that clergy will not break the seal of confession, even if it means facing legal consequences. Similar bills were proposed in other states but did not pass. The law has sparked debate over religious freedom and the protection of children.
18 days ago
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed a bill into law requiring clergy to report child abuse, even if the information is disclosed during confession 1 2 4. The law adds clergy to the list of mandatory reporters in the state, without an exception for sacramental confessions 1 2. This has ignited controversy due to the conflict with the Catholic Church's doctrine on the seal of confession 1 2 4.
Senate Bill 5375 mandates that members of the clergy report suspected or known instances of child abuse or neglect 1. Unlike previous versions of the bill, this law does not include an exemption for information learned during confession and explicitly states that clergy do not qualify for a “privileged communication” exemption 2 4. Other mandatory reporters in Washington include school personnel, nurses, social service counselors, and psychologists 1.
The Catholic Church's Catechism strictly forbids priests from divulging information learned during confession, considering it a sacred and protected "seal" 1. Bishop Thomas A. Daly of Spokane has vowed that his priests will uphold the seal of confession, even if it means facing jail time 1 2 4. He emphasized the Church's commitment to child safety through existing protocols and a zero-tolerance policy, while also highlighting the importance of religious freedom 1 2 4.
Supporters of the law argue that it closes a crucial loophole in child protection 1. Senator Noel Frame stated the bill is about the separation of church and state and the state's responsibility to protect children 1. Conversely, the Washington State Catholic Conference opposed the bill, advocating for an exception for confidential communications during confession, arguing that child protection can be achieved without violating religious freedom 1. Governor Ferguson, a Catholic, stated he sees the legislation as "pretty straightforward" and prioritizes protecting children 1 2 4.
Similar bills proposing to eliminate clergy exemptions in mandatory reporting have been introduced in other states 2 4. A Montana bill with similar aims stalled in committee 2 4. In 2023, Delaware and Vermont legislatures proposed similar laws, but they also failed to advance 2 4.
I cannot provide legal advice, but I can offer information about the Catholic Church's position on the Sacrament of Confession.
The question concerns a law in Washington state that mandates priests to report child abuse, even if disclosed during confession. This raises concerns regarding the sacramental seal of confession in the Catholic Church.
Here's a breakdown of key aspects:
The law in Washington potentially conflicts with the Church's teaching on the inviolability of the sacramental seal. The Church holds that no law can compel a priest to divulge sins confessed to him . The conflict between civil law and religious doctrine may create a challenging situation for priests. The historical context shows the Church has consistently upheld the secrecy of confession, even in the face of legal challenges .