CA SB894

Prohibits consent as a defense in civil sexual battery actions when the perpetrator is a member of the clergy in a position of trust or authority over an adult congregant who exploits their emotional dependency.

Creates new criminal offense of sexual exploitation by a member of the clergy for sexual intercourse, sodomy, oral copulation, or sexual contact with an adult congregant under their authority, with consent not being a valid defense.

Establishes graduated penalties ranging from county jail up to six months and $1,000 fine for single acts, up to 16 months to 3 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine for multiple victims or repeat offenders.

Defines "member of the clergy" as a priest, minister, rabbi, or similar functionary of a church, temple, or recognized denomination or organization.

Exempts sexual contact between clergy members and their spouses or those in equivalent domestic relationships from prosecution under this statute.