Senate Passes Religious Freedom Restoration Act

The Indiana Senate Tuesday passed the religious freedom restoration act. The controversial bill limits state and local governments from infringing on Hoosiers’ religious practices.

Indianapolis Democratic Sen. Greg Taylor says the bill would offer employees extra protections for religious accommodations in the workplace. He says that could lead to unintended consequences such as a rise in unemployment benefits.  As an example, Taylor cites a case where an employee was fired for refusing to work on Saturdays because of their religion.

“That person can go apply for unemployment benefits and the government has to provide it unless they state a compelling interest as to why they are not going to provide that government benefit,” Taylor said.

But Indianapolis Republican Scott Schneider says the bill focuses on the test governments must pass before they attempt to restrict or deny the free exercise of religion.

“This bill acts as a shield, not a sword,” Schneider said.

The bill passed along party lines.  It now moves to the House.