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Child Abuse News Media

Washington Legislature Passes Bill to Make Clergy Mandatory Reporters of Child Abuse

Criminal Justice, Government Bill proposed in response to InvestigateWest article makes no exemptions for allegations shared during confessions Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses on Spokane’s South Hill. Wilson Criscione/InvestigateWest By Wilson Criscione Apr 16, 2025 After a third consecutive year of raw, emotional debate over religious freedom and child safety, the Washington Legislature has passed […]

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Child Abuse News Media

WA Clergy May Be Required To Report Child Abuse Disclosed In Confession

Jan. 28, 2025 at 7:32 pm By Shauna Sowersby Seattle Times staff reporter OLYMPIA — When there is suspicion of child abuse or neglect, state law requires certain professions, like teachers and social and health care workers, to report it to authorities. While most states include clergy on the list of mandated reporters, Washington is […]