Religious Freedom Bill Advances

Supporters of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act say opponents’ fears that the proposed law will legalize discrimination are unfounded. A House committee passed the controversial measure Monday.

Fear is a word that comes up often in the debate around the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA.  Opponents fear it will be used to discriminate.  But proponents, such as Indiana Catholic Conference executive director Glen Tebbe, say it’s fear of the government encroaching on their religious freedoms that’s driving the push to pass the bill. 

And as Tebbe says, no one should be forced to do something that goes against their conscience.

“Religious freedom is more than the right to worship or to pray," Tebbe said. "Religious freedom also includes the right to contribute to the common good and live one’s beliefs.”

Photographers choosing not to work a same-sex wedding or a landlord refusing to rent to an abortion clinic are examples supporters provide of ways RFRA would protect religious freedom.  A House committee approved the bill Monday 9-4, along party lines.