CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The House Judiciary Committee has advanced the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (HB 4012) that provides a legal protection for West Virginians who believe their religious beliefs are being infringed upon by state action.
The bill has triggered an ongoing debate between religious conservatives and the LGBT community. Bill supporters say individuals and businesses need legal protections from laws that force them to violate their religious beliefs. However, opponents say RFRA essentially legalizes discrimination, particularly agianst the LGBT community.
Delegate Barbara Fleischauer opposed the bill saying it encourages discrimination and will harm the state economically. She said it’s hard to believe “the current leadership is saying it is desperately trying to attract new businesses… would advocate for a bill that dozens of businesses have said they will not do business in states where these bills have been enacted.”
Kellie Fiedorek with Alliance Defending Freedom, which supports the bill, said that the bill protects all walks of life.
“The purpose of RFRA is protect you regardless of religion, regardless of sexual orientation, regardless of Democrat, Republican; political party,” she said.
At least 20 other states have RFRA laws that carve out exemptions from certain legal requirements based on religious beliefs unless the government can show it has a compelling interest.
Fiedorek said that courts around the country have determined that there’s a good reason for RFRA legislation.
“Arguably, if you feel that government is burdening your ability to follow your beliefs, that is a substantial burden to you. I think that’s how courts have interpreted it,” Fiedorek said.
The bill passed out of committee on a 16-9 vote. It now goes to the House floor.