Bill > HB2016

This bill amends Arizona's existing law regarding the duty to report child abuse and neglect, primarily focusing on clarifying the reporting obligations for members of the clergy, Christian Science practitioners, and priests when receiving confessions. The bill introduces a new definition of "penitent confessor" and modifies the existing exemption for confidential communications. Under the updated law, members of the clergy can withhold reporting a confession from a penitent confessor if they determine it is reasonable and necessary within their religious practices, but this exemption only applies specifically to the confession itself and not to personal observations or other types of communications. The bill explicitly states that this exemption does not remove the clergy's overall duty to report known or suspected child abuse when acting in other capacities. The legislation maintains the existing requirements that certain professionals, including healthcare workers, school personnel, and others, must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect to appropriate authorities. Violations of the reporting requirements can result in a class 1 misdemeanor, or in cases involving reportable offenses, a class 6 felony. The bill aims to provide clearer guidance on confidentiality and reporting obligations while preserving the essential goal of protecting minors from abuse.

Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81662