SC House passes bill protecting churches from discrimination during emergencies

The following quote may be attributed to Alliance Defending Freedom Legal Counsel Greg Chafuen regarding South Carolina House of Representatives’ passage Wednesday of the Religion Is Essential Act (HB 3105), a bill which ensures that churches and other religious organizations are allowed to remain open during a state of emergency on the same or better terms as businesses and other secular services:

“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 comparable secular activities. South Carolina has taken an important step to defend this right by enabling religious organizations to keep their doors open and protecting them from discrimination based on their religious identity or constitutionally protected conduct. We commend the House Family Caucus and other members of the South Carolina House of Representatives for ensuring that churches and their ministries remain free to serve those who are in need, at risk, or suffering during this pandemic.”

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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