Plain English Breakdown
The official text mentions a 'specified reason' for why no reimbursement is required but does not state that reason.
AB-1739: Sexual Exploitation Crimes Involving Clergy
This law makes it a crime for clergy members providing therapeutic services to have specified sexual acts or contact with current or former patients, clients, or congregation members.
What This Bill Does
- Creates a new crime called sexual exploitation by a member of the clergy.
- Prohibits clergy providing therapeutic services from engaging in sexual intercourse, sodomy, oral copulation, or sexual contact with current or former patients, clients, or congregation members.
- States that consent is not a valid defense for this specific crime.
- Sets punishment as either a misdemeanor or a felony, including imprisonment and fines.
Who It Names or Affects
- Duly ordained members of recognized clergy who provide therapeutic services.
- People holding themselves out to be clergy providing therapeutic services.
- Current or former patients, clients, and congregation members receiving these services.
- Local agencies that may face new state-mandated programs due to the expanded crime definition.
Terms To Know
- Clergy
- Duly ordained religious practitioners or people claiming to be clergy who provide therapeutic services.
- Therapeutic Services
- Work of a psychological nature performed by clergy consistent with the laws governing their respective professions.
- Sexual Exploitation
- A crime involving specified sexual acts or contact between professionals and those they serve, where consent is not a defense.
Limits and Unknowns
- The bill does not specify the exact definition of 'member of the congregation' beyond general terms.
- The text states no state reimbursement is required for local costs but gives only a specified reason without detailing it here.
- The effective date and specific sentencing guidelines are not included in this summary.