Religious leaders in Washington state will soon be legally required to report suspected child abuse, even when it is revealed in confession.

Governor Bob Ferguson signed the law and said: “Protecting our kids first is the most important thing. This bill protects Washingtonians from abuse and harm.”

The new measure, set to take effect on 27th July, adds clergy to the list of mandatory reporters, joining professions such as teachers and healthcare workers.

Washington becomes one of the few states that removes legal exemption for confessional disclosures, as reported by The Christian Media Centre.

Democratic Senator Noel Frame, who spent three years working on the bill, said: “You never put somebody’s conscience above the protection of a child.”

The legislation faced strong opposition from the Washington State Catholic Conference and several Republican lawmakers.

Critics warned that breaking the seal of confession, sacred in Catholic teaching, would deter abusers from seeking help and force priests to violate their vows.

Yet advocates, including survivors of church-related abuse, say the law sends a powerful message.

Mary Dispenza from the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests said: “It says the church is not above the law, especially when it comes to protecting children.”

Governor Ferguson, who is Catholic, stood firm on the issue and said: “Been to confession, myself. I felt this was important legislation for protecting kids.”