KS Governor Candidates Differ on Clergy Mandatory Reporting for Child Abuse

Mandatory reporting laws in Kansas have become a focal point in the state’s legislative agenda, particularly regarding the inclusion of clergy as mandatory reporters. Currently, the list of mandated reporters includes teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders. During the 2026 legislative session, the Kansas House passed House Bill 2352, which would have made ordained ministers mandatory reporters of suspected child abuse and neglect. The bill received overwhelming support, with a vote of 111-5. It included an exception for privileged communications during private confession and required training for those obligated to report abuse and neglect.

The measure was then sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it did not receive a hearing and ultimately died. Advocates argue that making clergy mandatory reporters would enhance child protection efforts, citing the unique access clergy have to vulnerable individuals. Opponents, however, express concerns that such a law could deter perpetrators from seeking help, potentially leading to further abuse. Some also raise concerns about potential violations of religious freedom.

Governor candidates for the 2026 election, Republican Ty Masterson and Democrat Cindy Holscher, have differing stances on the issue. Holscher, a state senator from Overland Park, has been a consistent supporter of the measure. In 2024, she testified in favor of a similar bill, emphasizing its importance for the safety of vulnerable citizens. She highlighted the moral conflict clergy might face between their duty to protect and their obligation to maintain confidentiality in religious settings.

In an email to The Star, Holscher reiterated her commitment to survivors of sexual abuse, noting her efforts to extend the statute of limitations for seeking justice. She pledged to work with faith groups to establish guidelines that respect religious traditions while protecting children from abuse.

Masterson’s position on the issue remains unclear. As the Republican nominee and president of the Kansas Senate, he has not provided specific information about his stance on making clergy mandatory reporters. In April 2022, Masterson opposed a similar measure, though the full context of his position is not fully detailed in the source material.

The debate over clergy as mandatory reporters reflects broader tensions between the need for child protection and the preservation of religious freedoms. As the issue is likely to resurface in the 2027 legislative session, the positions of state leaders will play a critical role in shaping policy. The discussion underscores the complex balance between safeguarding the vulnerable and respecting the rights and traditions of religious communities.

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