Religious Freedom Restoration Act

Definition

The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) is a U.S. federal law enacted in 1993 that aims to protect individuals' religious freedoms from government infringement. It was designed to ensure that laws and regulations cannot substantially burden a person's exercise of religion unless there is a compelling governmental interest and the least restrictive means are used to achieve that interest. This law plays a significant role in promoting religious pluralism and diversity by allowing individuals to practice their faith freely without undue interference.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The RFRA was introduced in response to a Supreme Court decision (Employment Division v. Smith) that limited the scope of religious freedom protections under the First Amendment.
2. The act applies to both federal and state governments, allowing individuals to challenge laws that they believe interfere with their religious practices.
3. RFRA requires courts to apply strict scrutiny when evaluating government actions that may infringe on religious freedom, meaning the government must prove a compelling interest.
4. In 2014, the Supreme Court ruled in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores that closely held corporations could be exempt from certain ACA mandates if they conflicted with their owners' religious beliefs.
5. Various states have enacted their own versions of RFRA, leading to ongoing debates about the balance between religious freedom and other civil rights.

Review Questions

• How does the Religious Freedom Restoration Act impact the legal landscape for religious practices in the United States?
  • The Religious Freedom Restoration Act significantly impacts the legal landscape by providing a stronger framework for individuals to assert their religious rights when facing government actions that may infringe upon their beliefs. It shifts the burden of proof onto the government to demonstrate that any restriction on religious practice serves a compelling interest and uses the least restrictive means. This framework not only encourages individuals to freely practice their faith but also promotes awareness and respect for diverse religious expressions.
• Discuss how the Supreme Court's ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores reflects the principles established by RFRA.
  • The Supreme Court's ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores illustrates the principles of RFRA by affirming that closely held corporations could refuse to comply with certain Affordable Care Act mandates based on their owners' religious beliefs. The court determined that forcing these corporations to provide contraceptive coverage violated RFRA, as it imposed a substantial burden on their exercise of religion without demonstrating a compelling governmental interest. This case highlights how RFRA can extend protections beyond individuals to include corporate entities when it comes to religious freedom.
• Evaluate the ongoing debates surrounding state-level RFRAs and their implications for balancing religious freedom with civil rights protections.
  • The ongoing debates surrounding state-level RFRAs often focus on the tension between protecting religious freedoms and ensuring equal rights for all individuals, particularly in contexts such as LGBTQ+ rights. Critics argue that these laws can be used to justify discrimination under the guise of religious belief, while supporters contend they are essential for safeguarding individual liberties. This complex dialogue underscores the need for careful consideration of how religious freedom is defined and protected, highlighting the delicate balance required to uphold both personal faith and civil rights within diverse societies.

Related terms

First Amendment: The First Amendment to the United States Constitution protects the freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition, forming the foundation for religious liberty in the country.

Compelling Interest: A legal standard used in constitutional law to determine whether the government can justify restrictions on individual rights; a compelling interest must be necessary and crucial for the government action.

Substantial Burden: A significant restriction or pressure placed on an individual's ability to practice their religion, which must be proven for a case under RFRA.