Eliminate clergy exemption in mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect

SB 139 would remove an existing exemption that allows clergy members (like priests or ministers) to avoid reporting suspected child abuse or neglect if they learned about it during a confidential religious confession or counseling session. The bill directly affects Montana clergy who serve in religious roles, requiring them to report all suspected abuse just like other mandated reporters (such as teachers or doctors). It eliminates the current legal protection that lets clergy refuse to report based on confidentiality from religious communications, making them subject to the same mandatory reporting duties as other professionals. The bill would take effect immediately upon enactment, changing Montana law to require clergy to report suspected child abuse without exception.