Indiana Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA)

Summary

Indiana's RFRA states that the government cannot 'substantially burden' a person's exercise of religion unless it has a compelling reason and uses the least restrictive means possible.

Rights & Rules

01.
Individuals and businesses can use their religious beliefs as a defense in court if they believe a state or local law forces them to violate their faith.
02.
The government must prove a 'compelling interest' (like public safety) to override a religious objection.
03.
Following national controversy in 2015, the law was officially amended to state that RFRA cannot be used as a legal defense to discriminate against customers or employees based on race, color, religion, ancestry, age, national origin, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or United States military service.

Penalties

01.
If the government violates someone's religious freedom under this act, the person can sue for an injunction and sometimes monetary damages.

Verified Citations

Indiana Code Title 34, Article 13, Chapter 9

Source

"A governmental entity may not substantially burden a person's exercise of religion, even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability... unless the governmental entity demonstrates that application of the burden to the person: (1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and (2) is the least restrictive means..."