A key Senate committee unanimously advanced Senate Bill 542, which would add clergy to Georgia’s “improper sexual contact” statute, during a hearing Wednesday evening, Feb. 25.
The bill, authored by Sen. Randy Robertson, would allow prosecutors to bring charges when a minister uses a counseling relationship to obtain sexual contact.
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The committee voted after considering amendments that supporters said clarified language in the bill without changing its meaning, intent or purpose. The measure now heads to the Senate Rules Committee for a final vote before it can be scheduled for consideration by the full Senate.
Robertson told the committee that SB542 is intended to place clergy in the same category as other authority figures already covered in Georgia law and said he was approached by women who said they were victimized within religious organizations or churches.
The bill is not aimed at religious liberty or legitimate ministry, but rather establishes accountability when spiritual authority is used for exploitation.
Georgia Baptist response
Mike Griffin, public affairs representative for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, told lawmakers that Georgia Baptists support the bill and view it as part of a long-standing effort to promote accountability and improve abuse prevention in churches and faith-based institutions.
Griffin said SB542 could also serve as a clear warning and teaching tool for churches and ministry leaders statewide.
“This bill, I believe, can be used as an educational tool,” Griffin said. “I think it reminds people of the responsibility we have to protect others, and accountability and criminal charges are needed.”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Henry Durand and originally published by the Christian Index.
