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Bill

LC 700

Eliminate clergy exemption in mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect

2025 Regular Session

Requires Montana clergy to report suspected child abuse to authorities, eliminating their current exemption from mandatory reporting laws.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
#crimes #minors(seealso:familylaw) #religion
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Bill Summary · LC 700

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 700 would remove Montana's religious clergy exemption from mandatory child abuse and neglect reporting requirements. Currently, clergy members in Montana are exempt from reporting suspected child abuse to authorities; this bill would require them to report like other professionals. The bill is still in draft form and has not yet been introduced in the legislature.

Why is this important

Mandatory reporting laws exist to protect vulnerable children by ensuring suspected abuse reaches authorities quickly. The clergy exemption has been controversial because it may shield abuse within religious institutions from investigation, while other professionals (teachers, doctors, social workers) face legal penalties for non-reporting. Removing this exemption could increase reporting of abuse cases involving religious institutions and individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious freedom concerns: Opponents may argue mandatory reporting conflicts with clergy-penitent privilege and religious confidentiality traditions, citing First Amendment protections for religious practice
  • Scope of "clergy": Disagreement over which religious figures qualify as clergy and whether all faiths' confidentiality practices would be treated equally
  • Institutional impact: Religious organizations may face increased liability and operational challenges if internal matters become subject to mandatory reporting obligations

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

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