Bill > A01848

This bill enacts the Protecting Religious Assembly in States of Emergency (PRAISE) Act, which aims to protect religious institutions from discriminatory closure during emergencies. Specifically, the bill requires that if any governmental entity issues an emergency order that closes or limits businesses or facilities while exempting certain entities, places of worship recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. tax code must receive the same level of exemption as the most favored entities. The bill provides legal recourse for religious institutions, allowing them to bring civil actions if they are burdened by emergency restrictions. Potential remedies include injunctive orders, compensatory and nominal damages, declarations of violations, and potentially punitive damages if malice or recklessness can be demonstrated. The underlying intent is to ensure that religious assemblies are not disproportionately restricted during states of emergency, such as public health crises, and are treated equally with other types of organizations or businesses that may be allowed to remain open or have more flexible restrictions.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1848