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Washington Clergy Mandated to Break Confessional Seal as DOJ Launches First Amendment Probe

Catholic bishops vow defiance against Washington's new law requiring clergy to report abuse learned in confession, citing religious doctrine and constitutional concerns.

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The U.S. Justice Department is investigating a new Washington state law that requires clergy members to report suspected child abuse, the agency announced May 5.
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Overview

  • Washington's SB 5375, signed into law on May 2, 2025, mandates clergy to report child abuse learned during confession, removing the seal of confession exception.
  • The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation, citing potential violations of the First Amendment's free exercise clause.
  • Catholic bishops in Washington state have pledged to uphold the confessional seal, even under threat of legal penalties or excommunication.
  • The law uniquely excludes clergy from confidentiality protections granted to other professionals like attorneys and mental health counselors.
  • Governor Bob Ferguson defended the law as necessary to protect children, while critics argue it targets religious practices and violates church-state separation.