Washington state settles controversy over child abuse law that tested the limits of ‘priest-penitent’ privilege

Under church law, Catholic priests are forbidden from breaking the 'seal of confession.' Miguel Sotomayor/Moment via Getty Images

For months, a Washington state bill generated controversy over two critical interests: protecting children from abuse and protecting the freedom of religion.

Signed by the governor in May 2025, SB 5375 designated clergy as mandatory reporters, requiring them to report child sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect – even if they learned of the abuse during a confidential sacred rite.