Honorable Joan Huffman, Chair, Senate Committee on State Affairs
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB2065 by Estes (Relating to the rights of certain religious organizations and individuals relating to a marriage that violates a sincerely held religious belief.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would provide that religious organizations, organizations connected to a religious organization, an individual employed by a religious organization while acting in the scope of that employment, or a clergy or minister may not be required to participate in any part of a marriage or celebration of a marriage if it would violate a sincerely held religious belief.
Under the provisions of this bill, if someone belonging to one of the proscribed categories refuses to provide services, accommodations, facilities, goods, or privileges because of a sincerely held religious belief, that person's refusal cannot be the basis for a civil or criminal cause of action, or any other cause of action by the state or a political subdivision of the state, including withholding benefits or privileges, tax exemptions, or government contracts, grants, or licenses.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.