HB 54
An Act amending the act of December 9, 2002 (P.L.1701, No.214), known as the Religious Freedom Protection Act, further providing for definitions and for free exercise of religion protected.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill amends Pennsylvania’s Religious Freedom Protection Act by clarifying the definition of ‘substantially burden’ when considering government actions that impact a person’s free exercise of religion. Specifically, it expands the definition to include actions that significantly constrain religious conduct, curtail expression of faith, deny opportunities for religious activities, compel violations of religious tenets, prevent physical assembly for religious exercise, or authorize adverse actions against individuals for their religious beliefs. It also limits the use of certain exceptions under the Governor’s authority or the Disease Prevention and Control Law for purposes related to religious exercise.
Key provisions
- Clarifies the definition of ‘substantially burden’ in the Religious Freedom Protection Act.
- Expands the definition to include restrictions on religious conduct, expression, and activities.
- Adds a provision prohibiting adverse actions against individuals for exercising their religion.
- Limits the use of exceptions related to the Governor’s authority or the Disease Prevention and Control Law for religious exercise purposes.
Who is affected
- Individuals exercising their religious beliefs
- Government agencies
- Religious organizations
- Pennsylvania residents
- Businesses
Notable changes
- Expands the definition of ‘substantially burden’ to include a broader range of government actions impacting religious freedom.
- Adds a specific prohibition against adverse actions based on religious exercise.
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Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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