Washington state legislatures split on confessional seal
April 20, 2023
» Continue to this story on Crux
CWN Editor's Note: The lower house of the Washington state legislature has approved a bill that would require clergy to report evidence of child abuse, regardless of the confessional seal.
The upper chamber of the legislature has passed a similar measure, but left intact the clergy-penitent privilege. The two houses will now negotiate a compromise bill.
Bishop Thomas Daly of Spokane said on April 19: “I want to assure you that your shepherds, bishop and priests, are committed to keeping the seal of confession – even to the point of going to jail.”
For all current news, visit our News home page.
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
