Deschambault clergy sexual abuse prevention bill signed into law

AUGUSTA —On Thursday, Gov. Janet Mills signed into law legislation sponsored by Sen. Susan Deschambault, D-Biddeford, that criminalizes licensed pastoral counselor sexual abuse.

LD 913, “An Act To Protect the Public from Clergy Sexual Abuse,” would make it illegal for licensed pastoral counselors to engage in sexual activity with those who they are counseling. Licensed pastoral counselors are clergy members who have a specialized degree in behavioral counseling.

“This bill protects the rights of patients who seek counseling from licensed pastoral counselors in the same way we treat patient rights with other licensed behavior counselors,” said Sen. Deschambault.

This bill acknowledges that licensed pastoral counselors are in a position of trust and authority over another person, which creates an inherent power imbalance in the relationship. LD 913 would criminalize sexual conduct of any sort between a licensed pastoral counselor and another person if the clergy member uses his or her position of authority and trust to engage in a sexual act. 

Non-emergency laws passed in the regular legislative session this year will go into effect on Sept. 19, 90 days after the Maine Legislature adjourned sine die.