Maine 'religious freedom' bill gains traction
There is growing support from Republican lawmakers for a Maine bill that is similar to a controversial religious freedom law that was recently passed in Indiana.
The Bangor Daily News reported that LD 1340, proposed by Sen. David Burns, R-Whitling, would not allow local, state and county governments to place a substantial burden on a person’s right to free exercise of their religion. The bill has gained supported Senate Republican leaders, including Senate President Michael Thibodeau.
Like the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act, the newspaper noted, it would allow anyone to file a lawsuit if they feel their religious freedom is being infringed upon, and it would also allow them to use religious freedom as a defense for breaking any laws.
The bill has civil rights groups and Democrats concerned that it would conflict with Maine’s anti-discrimination laws and lead the way for legalized discrimination. Supporters have said the bill would help protect Mainers and their constitutional right to religious freedom.
Source: Bangor Daily News
Read more
Most Recent
Most Recent
Comments