Support for California SB 894

We request your support for SB-894 (Min): Sexual Exploitation by a Member of the Clergy. This bill would bring California in line with 13 other states and the District of Columbia in establishing criminal statutes for sexual exploitation of adults by clergy, similar to existing laws governing sexual relationships between therapists or doctors and their patients. The current gap in protection leaves many individuals without the necessary support and resources to address the trauma and harm caused by these actions.

SB-894 aims to rectify this by extending legal protections to adults who are sexually exploited by members of the clergy. By recognizing and addressing the specific dynamics of power and trust inherent in these relationships, this legislation seeks to provide avenues for justice and support for victims abused by members of the clergy as adults.

The hearing for SB-894 is scheduled for April 9, 2024, and we are eager to secure letters of support as soon as possible.

How You Can Help: 

 

1. Submit a message of support through the California Legislation Position Letter Portal by April 1, 2024.

  • Set up your account, which is quick and easy. 

  • Once you sign in, you will be taken to a page like the image below.

  • Under Select a Bill, enter Measure: “SB 894,” then click “Search.” 

  • Select Bill: “SB 894, Sexual exploitation by a member of the clergy.” 

  • Select Session Type: “Regular.”

  • Select your stance: “Support.” 

  • Select a committee: “Public Safety.”

  • Enter your stance: Write why CA should criminalize clergy sexual abuse of adults, and copy what you write to send it again in the next step. Then, click “Submit.”

 

2. Once you complete the steps above, please repeat them, but this time, select the committee: “Judiciary.”

 

3. Please also share this information with others you think will support this legislation.

Thank you for supporting this crucial initiative. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

SNAP Network is a GuideStar Gold Participant