Seattle Now Catholic leaders sue to protect confession secrecy
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Jun 3, 2025 Shauna Sowersby, a Seattle Times political reporter specializing in state government, joins the discussion on a contentious federal lawsuit by Catholic leaders opposing a new law mandating clergy to report suspected child abuse. They delve into the clash between the confidentiality of confession and child protection laws, revealing differing opinions within the Catholic community. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas clergy face, as well as broader implications for First Amendment rights and the legal responsibilities to safeguard vulnerable children.
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Conflict Between Law and Confession
- The new Washington law mandates clergy to report suspected child abuse, even if revealed in confession.
- This law forces priests to choose between violating the confessional seal or facing jail time.
Catholic Division and Reporting Laws
- Catholics are divided on the law requiring clergy to report abuse during confession.
- Similar mandatory reporting laws exist for other professions like healthcare, which override confidentiality rules.
Details of the New Law
- Washington’s new law adds clergy to the list of mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect.
- Clergy must report abuse but are not required to testify in court cases related to abuse.