Religious Freedom Act in Kansas Legislature draws praise, criticism [View all]

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By Adam Strunk
Eagle Topeka bureau
Published Monday, Feb. 13, 2012, at 10:28 p.m

Proponents say the Preservation of Religious Freedom Act would protect Kansans’ right to practice their religion. Opponents see it as an open door to discrimination and lawsuits.

The bill, HB 2260, will have a hearing before the state House Judiciary Committee this morning. It would prohibit state institutions from curtailing or denying a person’s exercise of religion, unless government has a compelling reason to do so.

It also would allow people to sue state institutions and local governments for infringing on their religious freedom.

Rep. Lance Kinzer, R-Olathe, who introduced the bill, said it seeks to make sure Kansans’ religious beliefs are respected.

http://www.kansas.com/2012/02/13/2215085/religious-freedom-act-in-kansas.html