Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] proposes to eliminate the exemption for members of the clergy regarding mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect in Montana. The bill amends Section 41-3-201 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) to require that all professionals and officials listed in the statute, including clergy members, must report any known or suspected child abuse or neglect without the ability to refuse based on any privilege related to confidentiality. Specifically, the bill removes previous provisions that allowed clergy to withhold reports if the information was obtained through confidential communications or confessions.

The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting children from abuse and neglect by ensuring that all individuals in positions of responsibility are held accountable for reporting suspicions. It includes an immediate effective date upon passage and approval, reinforcing the urgency of addressing child welfare concerns in the state.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 41-3-201
SB0139_1(1): 41-3-201
SB0139_1(2): 41-3-201
SB0139_1(3): 41-3-201
SB0139_1: 41-3-201