DOJ sues Washington over law requiring priests to break Confession seal

The United States Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Washington State on June 23, challenging Senate Bill 5375, a new law that requires clergy, including Catholic priests, to report child abuse or neglect, even if learned during the sacrament of Confession. The DOJ argues the law violates the First Amendment’s Free Exercise of Religion […]

What you should know: New laws that go into effect on July 23

OLYMPIA, Wash., July 23, 2023—Bills signed into law take effect 90 days after the end of the session in which they were passed. From a controversial parental rights exemption to an anti-hazing law to promoting water safety, below are some new laws going into effect as of July 23, 2023. SB-5599: Supporting youth and young […]

Advocates press for highly capable program testing for all students

ARTICLE UPDATE [3-22-23 @ 2:55 pm]: SSB 5072 that will expand the highly capable program, passed the House on March 22, 2023, with 97; nays, 0; absent, 0; excused, 1. The Bill heads to the Governor Inslee for signature. OLYMPIA, Wash., February 20, 2023—School districts should be required to test all students to see if […]