Controversy follows passage of Indiana religious-freedom bill
March 26, 2015
By large majorities of 63-31 in the House and 40-10 in the Senate, the Indiana General Assembly has passed the Indiana Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
The measure “prohibits a governmental entity from substantially burdening a person's exercise of religion, even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability, unless the governmental entity can demonstrate that the burden: (1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and (2) is the least restrictive means of furthering the compelling governmental interest.”
The Indiana Catholic Conference, citing a variety of cases-- including adoption agencies, doctors, and therapists-- supported the legislation.
Gov. Mike Pence pledged to sign the bill but is under pressure to veto it amid threats of loss of convention business.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Indiana's Pence to sign bill allowing businesses to reject gay customers (CNN)
- Indiana Passes RFRA Law (Religion Clause)
- Support SB 101 Religious Freedom Restoration Act (Indiana Catholic Conference)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
-
Posted by: FredC -
Mar. 27, 2015 10:09 AM ET USA
"Compelling government interest" is a phrase used in the Federal law and in Federal courts. It is being ignored by this Federal administration; however, the government and its courts set themselves to be the judges as to whether there is a compelling government interest. I hope the governor puts what is right ahead of what is lucrous.
