Bill > HB1228

This bill enacts the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, establishing that state actions cannot substantially burden a person's right to exercise their religion unless the action is essential to further a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of doing so. The Act defines "exercise of religion" broadly to include acting or refusing to act based on sincerely held religious beliefs, and "substantial burden" as preventing, inhibiting, or curtailing religiously-motivated practice. It provides individuals whose religious exercise is burdened with the ability to assert this as a claim or defense in legal proceedings, potentially seeking injunctive relief, damages, and attorney's fees. The bill also includes an emergency clause, stating its immediate necessity for the preservation of public peace, health, and safety, and will become effective upon approval by the Governor, expiration of the Governor's veto period, or override of a veto.