New Washington Law Requires Clergy to Report Abuse, Even From Confession
Above: A confessional inside the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on April 24, 2025, in Kharkiv, Ukraine. Image copyright: Viktoriia Yakymenko/Contributor/Suspilne Ukraine/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This law will protect Washington's children and is not an attack on the Church. It closes a loophole, mandating that clergy report child abuse and aligning them with other responsible adults. Supported by survivors, religious leaders, and child welfare groups, it ensures safety, accountability, and justice for kids.
Narrative B
By forcing priests to break the Seal of Confession, this law undermines religious freedom — targeting Catholic clergy while sparing other professionals. It risks jailing priests for upholding sacred vows, which violates both canon law and constitutional protections. This law prioritizes politics over faith, not child safety.