Washington State’s New Law Sparks Controversy

On Friday, Governor Bob Ferguson (D) approved a controversial bill that has stirred significant debate.

This new law calls for clergy, including priests and pastors, to report certain allegations, leading to a strong backlash from Washington’s Catholic bishops and prompting a civil rights investigation from the Department of Justice.

Senate Bill 5375 received support from both the state Senate and House, passing with votes of 28-20 and 64-31 respectively. It requires individuals in supervisory roles within nonprofits, including religious leaders, to disclose specific information.

Interestingly, this version of the law lacks exceptions for information learned during confessions, unlike earlier drafts.

Reports indicate that the final language of SB 5375 does not exempt individuals from having to report abuse that comes to light during privileged communication.

“He cannot take advantage of the knowledge that confession gives him about a life of repentance.”

The law places priests in a precarious position, as requiring them to share confessions could result in automatic excommunication according to Catholic doctrine.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of confidentiality in these matters:

Given the delicateness and importance of this ministry, priests are mandated to maintain absolute secrecy regarding sins confessed. This confidentiality, known as the “seal of the sacraments,” is inviolable.

The Washington State Catholic Conference reiterated opposition to the bill, asserting that violating this seal leads to severe penalties, including automatic excommunication.

Supporter of the bill, Senator Noel Frame, remains unfazed by these concerns, arguing that the safety of children should take precedence over religious confidentiality. “It doesn’t matter what religion you are,” she stated.

During a legislative discussion in February, Republican Senator Leonard Christian expressed worry that the law may force clergy to choose between adhering to their faith and following state law.

“After the apostles were arrested, St. Peter said, ‘We must obey God, not man.'”

The bishops in Washington have made their stance clear regarding which laws they prioritize. Pastor Thomas Daly, Bishop of Spokane, conveyed his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the seal of confession, declaring that they have robust policies in place to protect children.

Meanwhile, Archbishop Paul Etienne of Seattle stressed that while the church supports child protection efforts, the sacrament’s confidentiality remains non-negotiable, raising questions about the fairness of the law, which seems to singularly target clergy.

The Justice Department’s investigation into the law indicates a potential violation of the First Amendment, labeling SB 5375 as discriminatory against Catholics.

Hermeet Dillon, an attorney in the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, stated that the law appears to be forcing clergy to compromise their religious beliefs in compliance with government mandates. The department looks forward to collaborating on the investigation concerning the law’s implications.

In a recent statement, Governor Ferguson, who identifies as Catholic, expressed optimism about the ongoing investigation while affirming the importance of protecting children from abuse.