Bill > SF240

This bill establishes the "Religious Freedom Restoration Act" in Iowa, which restores the "compelling interest test" from past Supreme Court rulings. The bill provides that the government cannot substantially burden a person's exercise of religion unless it is the least restrictive means of furthering a compelling governmental interest. It allows a person to assert a claim or defense if their religious exercise is burdened, and applies to all state and local laws. The bill exempts the Department of Corrections, district departments of correctional services, county jails, and other detention facilities, and takes effect upon enactment.