Washington state settles controversy over child abuse law that tested the limits of ‘priest-penitent’ privilege

By: Ann M Murphy, Gonzaga University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 29, 2025

Words: 1,167

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 6 days ago

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By Ann M Murphy, Gonzaga University

For months, a Washington state bill generated controversy over two critical interests: protecting children from abuse and protecting the freedom of religion.

Signed by the governor in May 2025, SB 5375 designated clergy as mandatory reporters, requiring them to report child sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect – even if they learned of the abuse during a confidential sacred rite.

Some faiths, including the Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox …

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