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Catholic Leaders Oppose Bill Threatening Confessional Privacy

6/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Catholic leaders in Washington are taking a stand against Senate Bill 5375, which requires clergy to report suspected child abuse, even if revealed in confessions. They claim this law infringes on their First Amendment rights and the Equal Protection Clause. While the bill seeks to safeguard children, it raises concerns about the sanctity of confessional vows.

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Story summary

Catholic leaders in Washington are taking a stand against Senate Bill 5375, which requires clergy to report suspected child abuse, even if revealed in confessions. They claim this law infringes on their First Amendment rights and the Equal Protection Clause. While the bill seeks to safeguard children, it raises concerns about the sanctity of confessional vows.