Are Pastors Mandated Reporters Regarding Child Abuse?

Are pastors mandated reporters of crimes such as child abuse? South Dakota, Kansas and Virginia are among the states looking into adding pastors and other church staff to the list of mandatory reporting to report suspected child abuse. Other states are deciding whether to tighten existing “mandatory reporter” laws by removing confidentiality from religious conversations such as confession. The debate comes amid continued efforts to safeguard children from sexual abuse and to expose predators who exploit their role as trusted church leaders. Read More