Recently, Governor Brian Kemp (R) signed Senate Bill (SB) 36, also known as the Georgia Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The bill provides the preservation of religious freedom by revising several provisions and repealing conflicting laws.
Essentially, the bill prevents the government from substantially burdening a person’s religious exercise. In order to restrict such exercise, the government has to demonstrate a compelling interest and use minimal means.
Governor Kemp took to X to discuss the passage of the bill to explain his thoughts on it. He noted how the language and provisions of the bill are really quite standard. The bill reflects attitudes and policies that have been in place federally since 1993.
Kemp stated, “I want to congratulate those who worked for the passage of SB 36. … My commitment to that promise and to the deeply held beliefs of Georgians of faith remains unwavering. I also want to assure those of differing views that Georgia remains a welcoming place to live, work, and raise a family.”
Lt. Governor Burt Jones responded with support for the bill on X. He reiterated how this bill is a step in the right direction for aligning Georgia with other governing entities. Jones emphasized how this aligned Georgia with 39 other states.
Jones commented, “I commend the Senate for leading on Senate Bill 36, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), which received final passage last night. Preserving Georgians’ rights to practice their faith freely is essential, and I look forward to Georgia joining the 39 other states where religious freedoms are protected.”
Jones concluded on X that this bill simply reinforces fundamental rights shared by all Georgians.
Jones also commented, “Religious freedom is a fundamental human right and in Georgia, we believe in protecting everyone’s right to believe and practice their faith freely. I want to thank @GovKemp for signing Senate Bill 36 into law today.”
