If its not a formal sin, why confess it? Also, I can't help but feel if they did say that, how many people are able to keep working because of the shot, and if people aren't working how can they tithe to the church?
This is classic rationalization. What do you think the early Christians in Rome thought when they were told they'd be put to death if they refused to offer incense to the Roman Emperor?
Christian # 1: I cannot willingly participate in evil pagan worship. I refuse to offend God. If necessary I will give my life in order to not offend God.
Christian # 2: But my family needs me; my family will starve if I'm put to death. I'm sure that the Lord understands that I just have to offer a little incense to the Roman Emperor. It's only remote evil, it's not like I really want to worship a false god.
That said, for those who have already gone down that path, Our Lord understands repentance and a good confession.