Signed by Governor Kevin Stitt

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that specifies the free exercise of religion during an emergency.

Highlights:

• Specifies that no governmental entity shall substantially burden a person's free exercise of religion unless it demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is essential to further a compelling governmental interest (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that any order or rule issued by any governmental entity pursuant to an emergency that requires closure of any place of worship entitled to the religious exemption shall be considered a substantial burden even if the order or rule is one of general applicability (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this act shall become effective November 1, 2021 (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that specifies the free exercise of religion during an emergency.

Highlights:

• Specifies that no governmental entity shall substantially burden a person's free exercise of religion unless it demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is essential to further a compelling governmental interest (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that any order or rule issued by any governmental entity pursuant to an emergency that requires closure of any place of worship entitled to the religious exemption shall be considered a substantial burden even if the order or rule is one of general applicability (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this act shall become effective November 1, 2021 (Sec. 2).

Full Bill Text