Feds call child abuse confession law for priests
CBS5 days
Catholic Church to Excommunicate Priests Who Follow New State Law
Above: Washington state Gov. Bob Ferguson at the Seattle Convention Center on Nov. 5, 2024. Image copyright: Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Contributor/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This law will protect Washington's children and not attack 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 kids' safety, accountability, and justice.
Narrative B
By forcing priests to break the Seal of Confession, this law undermines religious freedom, targeting Catholic clergy while sparing other professionals, like attorneys. It risks jailing priests for upholding the most sacred of vows, which violates both canon law and constitutional protections. This law is solely political, not about protecting children.