KY Gov. Beshear signs bill protecting churches from discrimination

The following quote may be attributed to Alliance Defending Freedom Legal Counsel Greg Chafuen regarding Gov. Andy Beshear’s signing Tuesday of HB 43, a bill sponsored by Rep. Shane Baker ensuring that the state does not discriminate against churches and other religious organizations and allows them to remain open during a state of emergency on terms that aren’t inferior to other businesses and services:

“Houses of worship and religious organizations provide soul-sustaining operations that are essential to our society and protected by the First Amendment. While public officials have the authority and responsibility to protect public health and safety, the First Amendment prohibits the government from treating houses of worship and religious organizations worse than shopping centers, restaurants, or gyms. HB 43 makes it clear that officials cannot discriminate against religious operations, including during a public crisis. We commend Gov. Beshear and the Kentucky Legislature for taking this significant step to defend religious liberty for all Kentuckians.”

· Pronunciation guide: Chafuen (CHAFF’-wen)

Alliance Defending Freedom is an alliance-building, non-profit legal organization committed to protecting religious freedom, free speech, parental rights, and the sanctity of life.

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