Priests Could Face Jail for Upholding Confessional Privilege in Arizona
A proposed Arizona law would criminalize priests who refuse to break the Seal of Confession, risking fines and prison while sparking legal and religious freedom challenges.
PHOENIX, AZ — A proposed Arizona law, House Bill 2309, would impose fines up to $150,000 and up to two years in prison on Orthodox and Catholic priests who refuse to break the sacred Seal of Confession, even if they learn only of a threat of abuse. Introduced by Democrat Stacey Travers, the bill mirrors a 2023 proposal and targets clergy who uphold Church canons. Orthodox canons dictate that a priest who breaks the confessional seal can be deposed, laicized, or excommunicated.
Critics warn the law could violate constitutional religious protections and priest-penitent privilege, a legal principle upheld in the U.S. since 1813.
Legal scholars note the law is likely unconstitutional and could face intervention from the U.S. Department of Justice, citing prior federal rulings against similar legislation in Washington. Travers’ office has not responded to inquiries about religious freedom reviews.
Previously, the UOJ reported that federal court blocked a similar law requiring priests to break the confessional seal.
