A California bill would end the exemption for clergy from a state law that mandates those who have knowledge of child sex abuse to report it to authorities, even if heard in confession.
The bill passed in the state Senate on May 23rd in a 30-4 vote, with 4 senators not voting. The vote was largely along party lines, with 27 Democrats and 3 Republicans voting in favor, while 4 Republicans voted against. The 4 senators not voting included 3 Republicans and 1 Democrat.
