MI HB5316

Replaces outdated terminology for religious confidentiality privileges by changing "minister of the gospel, priest, or Christian Science practitioner" to the broader term "cleric" encompassing ministers, priests, rabbis, Christian Science practitioners, and similar religious functionaries.

Establishes that clerics cannot be allowed to disclose confessions made in their professional capacity as spiritual advisors within their religious organization's discipline and practice.

Exempts confessions involving past physical violence against a third person or threats of physical violence against a reasonably identifiable third person when the individual has apparent intent and ability to carry out the threat in the foreseeable future.

Defines "cleric" to include individuals reasonably believed by the person consulting them to be a religious functionary, expanding the privilege's application beyond officially ordained practitioners.