HCS SB 12 -- RELIGIOUS FREEDOM RESTORATION ACT

This bill prohibits a governmental authority from restricting a
person's free exercise of religion unless the restriction is
generally applicable, does not discriminate against religion, is
necessary to further a compelling governmental interest, and is
not unduly restrictive considering the relevant circumstances.
Relevant circumstances may include legitimate penological
interests needed to protect the safety and security of
incarcerated persons and correctional facilities, but does not
include reasonable requests by incarcerated individuals for the
opportunity to pray, reasonable access to clergy, use of
religious materials that are not violent or profane, and
reasonable dietary requests.  The bill also specifies that its
provisions apply to all state and local laws, resolutions, and
ordinances regardless of whether they were adopted before or
after the bill's effective date.

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated July 25, 2003 at 10:13 am