Think Out Loud

Laws protect faith healers in Idaho despite children’s deaths

By Rolando Hernandez (OPB)
Aug. 31, 2026 1 p.m.

Broadcast: Monday, Aug. 31

Since 2015, almost every year, a child in the faith-healing sect Followers of Christ in Idaho has died from a treatable condition. That’s according to new reporting from ProPublica.

In Oregon, where Followers of Christ are also present, lawmakers have previously removed faith-healing protections that Idaho has. Authorities in the state say this has led parents to seek medical care for their children when needed.

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Audrey Dutton is a reporter for ProPublica. She joins us to share more on her reporting.

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