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NE LB167

NE LB167
Protect religious freedoms as prescribed and provide for certain tort claims


summary

Introduced
01/08/2021
In Committee
01/12/2021
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/20/2022

Introduced Session

107th Legislature

Bill Summary

A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to fundamental rights; to amend sections 13-901 and 81-8,235, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska; to protect religious services as prescribed; to define terms; to authorize tort claims under the Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act and the State Tort Claims Act; to harmonize provisions; to provide severability; and to repeal the original sections.

AI Summary

This bill aims to protect religious freedoms in Nebraska during a state of emergency proclaimed by the Governor. It defines key terms like "government," "religious organization," and "religious services," and prohibits the government from prohibiting religious organizations from operating or engaging in religious services during a state of emergency. The bill also authorizes religious organizations to assert violations of the act as a claim or defense in legal proceedings and allows them to recover damages, declaratory relief, and injunctive relief. Additionally, the bill waives sovereign, governmental, and qualified immunities to allow religious organizations to sue the government for damages under the Political Subdivisions Tort Claims Act and the State Tort Claims Act. The bill is intended to be construed broadly in favor of protecting the free exercise of religion.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

Indefinitely postponed (on 04/20/2022)

bill text


bill summary

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bill summary

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