Bill > HB2070

This bill modifies Arizona's laws regarding clergy members' duties to report child abuse and neglect. Specifically, the bill changes existing statutes to require clergy, priests, and Christian Science practitioners to report ongoing or potential child abuse, even if the information was initially received through a confidential confession or communication. Previously, these religious representatives could withhold reporting if they deemed it "reasonable and necessary within the concepts of the religion." Now, they are mandated to report abuse if they have reasonable suspicion that the abuse is currently happening, may continue, or could potentially threaten other minors. The bill also adds a new subsection explicitly requiring clergy to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect to law enforcement or child safety agencies. This change aims to close potential loopholes that might have previously allowed abuse to continue unreported, prioritizing child protection over religious confidentiality. The modifications apply to various scenarios involving potential abuse, including physical injury, sexual abuse, and neglect, and specify that the reporting requirement exists even if the initial information was received in a confidential religious context.

Justice

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/81736