#USA #Child Protection #Olympia #Clergy Accountability #SB 5375

Controversy Surrounds Washington's New Clergy Reporting Law

On July 27, 2025, Washington State's new clergy reporting law, known as Senate Bill 5375, will go into effect. This law mandates that all members of the clergy report any credible knowledge of child abuse and neglect, regardless of how the information is obtained. Following its signing by Governor Ferguson, supporters felt a sense of jubilation until they learned that the Department of Justice (DOJ) was launching an investigation into the bill, branding it as "anti-Catholic." This surprising characterization has stirred debate among various stakeholders.

Understanding SB 5375's Provisions

The legislation aims to protect children by ensuring that those in positions of trust, including clergy from all faiths, are held accountable when they possess knowledge of abuse. This initiative is rooted in the belief that secrecy has historically been used to conceal cases of abuse within religious institutions. Sharon Huling, a co-founder of the Catholic Accountability Project, emphasized that the law is not targeting Catholic priests specifically but mandates that all religious leaders must disclose abuse. This contrasts previous practices where certain communications made during confessions were kept confidential.

Privilege vs. Accountability

Critics of the bill, including representatives from the DOJ, have voiced concerns that it disproportionately affects clergy by stripping them of certain privileges afforded to other professionals. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon highlighted that the law seemingly isolates clergy, suggesting it infringes upon their rights compared to other mandatory reporters who are already subject to disclosure laws in cases involving child abuse. In response, supporters were quick to point out that similar obligations apply across various professions, including parents who can be compelled to testify in abuse cases to protect children’s welfare.

Voices from the Coalition

The Clergy Accountability Coalition (CAC), the advocacy group backing the bill, features a diverse membership ranging from religious individuals to atheists. They argue that the new law serves as an essential safeguard for children who are often silenced through systemic abuse. Marino Hardin, a coalition member and whistleblower, recounted his experience with high-profile abuse cases within religious organizations to underscore the need for legal mandates in reporting. He expressed hope that this law would encourage those with knowledge of abuse to speak out rather than remain complicit through silence.

Mary Dispenza, a former nun who shared her harrowing story of being abused by a priest as a child, became a poignant voice for survivors advocating for change. Her testimony during legislative discussions illuminated the real-life consequences of maintaining confidentiality in clerical settings. Dispenza insisted, "If a child confesses abuse, they seek help, not punishment. We must stop the cycle of silence."

Legislative Support and Broader Implications

Key figures in the Washington legislature, such as Senator Noel Frame, have championed the bill as a significant step toward ending a culture of secrecy that protects abusers rather than victims. Frame, a survivor herself, has highlighted the need for accountability in religious institutions and has called for action following disturbing reports of abuse within organizations.

In a passionate appeal, Rep. Debra Lekanoff, a Native American lawmaker, spoke about the trauma inflicted on many children, particularly in the context of boarding schools. She urged the importance of breaking the silence that has allowed abuse to continue unchallenged. Voices from indigenous communities echoed the necessity of holding abusers accountable regardless of their role or faith.

The Road Ahead and Community Expectations

As Washington State prepares to implement this law, its impact will extend beyond the borders of the state. Other states with similar legislation, including Texas and North Carolina, have already seen an increase in accountability within religious institutions. The CAC asserts that Washington is taking a vital stance against child exploitation while pushing religious organizations to reevaluate damaging practices that shield abusers.

The Pew Institute report illustrating that nearly 27% of Christians have left their faith due to ongoing abuse scandals further highlights the urgency of rectifying these issues. Tim Law, a member of Ending Clergy Abuse, emphasized the importance of collaboration within religious institutions to ensure children’s safety, underscoring that "good priests should not fear retribution for reporting abuse."

The CAC hopes the DOJ will recognize the significance of this law and embrace its intent: the protection of children and a commitment to eradicating abuse within religious settings. Ultimately, society must prioritize child safety above all else, regardless of the potential for pushback from religious entities reluctant to adapt to these necessary changes. As the date for the law's effectiveness approaches, much awaits to be seen about its implementation and impact throughout the state and beyond.