Washington clergy must report child abuse, sparking controversy
- Clergy in Washington state will be required to report child abuse and neglect as of July 27, 2025.
- Roman Catholic leaders and the U.S. DOJ argue this law discriminates against the church's practices.
- The new reporting obligations stir debate over the balance between protecting children and religious freedoms.
In July 2025, a controversial law in Washington state comes into effect, mandating clergy to report all instances of child abuse and neglect, irrespective of whether the information is obtained through confidential confessions. This significant legal change has drawn criticism from Roman Catholic leaders and the U.S. Department of Justice, who argue that the law discriminates against religious practices. Plaintiffs, including Roman Catholic Archbishop of Seattle Paul D. Etienne, filed for an injunction to block enforcement of the law, asserting it undermines the sanctity of the confessional, a core tenet of their faith. The law removes previous protections enjoyed by clergy regarding privileged communication, making it a focal point in the ongoing debate over religious freedom against state obligations to protect minors. In the context of broader legislative measures, critics highlight the uneven application of mandatory reporting requirements across different professions, suggesting that the state may not be acting neutrally. This legal battle exemplifies the tension between safeguarding children from abuse and protecting religious freedoms, posing critical questions about the boundaries of law and faith amid competing interests in society, with potential implications for similar legislation nationwide. As enforcement dates draw near, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with the conflict serving as a flashpoint in broader discussions about the role of religion in public policy, particularly in liberal states.