State lawmakers across the U.S. are debating whether clergy should be required to report suspected child abuse, even if learned during confession.
- Missouri bill requiring clergy to report abuse from religious rites failed to advance. - Washington state law requiring clergy to report abuse from confession was blocked by a federal judge after Catholic bishops sued.
- New York and Vermont bills propose adding clergy to mandated reporters, with Vermont seeking to end the confession exception. - Other states consider adding sports coaches and camp leaders to mandated reporter lists.
The debate balances child safety with religious freedom, as opponents argue such laws may deter abusers from seeking help.