Bill > SB975

This bill, known as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, amends Arkansas law to protect the free exercise of religion by requiring the government to demonstrate a compelling governmental interest and use the least restrictive means when substantially burdening a person's religious exercise. The act defines "government" broadly to include state and local entities and officials, and "demonstrates" as meeting the burdens of evidence and persuasion. It allows individuals to assert violations of this protection as a claim or defense in legal proceedings and applies to all state laws, whether existing or future, unless explicitly exempted. The bill clarifies that it does not affect constitutional provisions regarding the establishment of religion and that providing government funding or benefits, but not denying them, is permissible. Notably, the Department of Correction, Department of Community Correction, county jails, and detention facilities are exempt from these provisions. The bill also declares an emergency, making it effective immediately upon approval, veto expiration, or veto override, to ensure the prompt protection of religious freedom.