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Bill

SB 5375

Concerning the duty of clergy to report child abuse and neglect.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jess Bateman and 5 co-sponsors

Washington requires clergy to report suspected child abuse to authorities, eliminating previous religious confidentiality exemptions and establishing uniform mandatory reporting standards.

Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Bill Summary · SB 5375

Legislative bill overview

SB 5375 requires clergy members in Washington State to report suspected child abuse and neglect to authorities, removing the previous religious confidentiality exemption that protected priest-penitent communications. The bill aligns clergy reporting obligations with other mandatory reporters like teachers, healthcare workers, and social workers, with limited exceptions for privileged communications in specific contexts.

Why is this important

Child abuse cases involving clergy have historically gone unreported due to confidentiality protections, leaving vulnerable children without intervention. This change aims to increase child safety by ensuring suspected abuse reaches law enforcement and child protective services, while balancing religious practice concerns that have delayed similar legislation in other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious freedom concerns: Faith communities argue the bill infringes on sacred confession/penitent privilege, a centuries-old religious practice protected in many jurisdictions
  • Scope of "suspected" abuse: Vague definitions of what constitutes reportable suspicion could create liability concerns for clergy and discourage people from seeking spiritual counsel
  • Practical enforcement challenges: Determining which communications qualify for exceptions and prosecuting non-compliance against religious figures raises implementation questions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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