WASHINGTON — A federal judge blocked Washington State Friday from enforcing a law that would require Catholic priests to report child abuse — even when disclosed in a confessional — or face nearly a year of jail time.
Tacoma US District Chief Judge David G. Estudillo stayed the law that threatened clergy with a $5,000 fine and up to 364 days in prison for not disclosing child abuse and neglect heard during confessions.
The legislation, SB 5375, was signed by Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson in May and would have taken effect July 27.
In 25-page order, Estudillo — appointed to the federal bench by former President Joe Biden — determined the law was likely unconstitutional and violated First Amendment protections allowing for the free exercise of religion.
“The State arguably could have chosen a less restrictive means of advancing its interest in protecting children from abuse and neglect by adding