Conference Report On H.R. 2647, National Defense Authorization Act For Fiscal Year 2010

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my opposition to the recently enacted policies rammed through Congress in this defense bill.

The so-called ``Hate crimes'' language in this bill contradicts Americans' First Amendment rights and sets a very dangerous precedent.

We can all agree that any form of bigotry in America is unacceptable. Unfortunately, the ``hate crimes'' provisions in this defense bill not only have no business in this unrelated legislation, they are also so sweeping and broad that they may very well encompass legitimate religious beliefs.

As a result, under this legislation, any pastor, preacher, priest, rabbi or imam who gives a sermon out of their moral traditions about sexual practices could be found guilty of a federal crime. This is far outside of the current of American freedom that flows through our history.

These ``hate crimes'' provisions will have a negative effect on the ability of people of deep religious convictions to express those convictions freely. They will inevitably have a ``chilling effect'' on religious expression from churches, temples and mosques. The most responsible thing for Congress to do is to take steps to rein in this infringement on Americans' First Amendment rights.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source