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 all professionals and officials, including clergy members, to report any known or suspected child abuse or neglect without the ability to refuse based on confidentiality privileges typically associated with religious confessions. Specifically, the bill removes previous legal language that allowed clergy to withhold reports if the information was obtained through confidential communications or confessions made in their religious capacity.

The bill also establishes an immediate effective date upon passage and approval. By removing the exemption for clergy, the legislation aims to strengthen the protection of children by ensuring that all individuals in positions of authority or trust are held accountable for reporting suspected abuse or neglect. This change reflects a broader commitment to child welfare and the importance of timely intervention in cases of potential harm.

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(4): 41-3-201
SB0139_1(5): 41-3-201
SB0139_1(6): 41-3-201
SB0139_1: 41-3-201