Bill > HB542

This bill provides that any prohibition on in-person gatherings during a declared state of emergency shall not apply to houses of worship and religious organizations. It also states that the state government shall not substantially burden a person's right to the free exercise of religion unless doing so is essential to further a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling interest. The bill defines key terms such as "exercise of religion," "religious organization," "religious service," and "substantial burden" to clarify the scope of the protections it offers. Additionally, the bill allows religious organizations to assert violations of these provisions as a claim or defense in judicial or administrative proceedings and to recover appropriate relief if successful.

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