JACKSON, MS (localmemphis.com) - A new religious freedom bill is confusing people across the state.

Civil rights activists and Mississippi lawmakers are buzzing about the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Supporters said it protects religious rights. Opponents said it enables discrimination.

Most people Local 24 talked with have never heard of the bill and don't understand what the point of it is.

Senate bill 2681 was just passed Tueasay, and governor Phil Bryant is expected to sign it into law.

But what exactly is the Mississippi religious freedom restoration act?

The law basically allows people to sue the government if they feel their religious freedom is being violated.

It's modeled after a federal mandate from 1993 and reads, state action or an action by any person based on state action shall not burden a person's right to the exercise of religion.

The language is enough to confuse some.

Opponents say the act is unnecessary, too broad, and could use religion to justify discrimination against gays and lesbians.

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New Miss. Religious Freedom Bill Creates Confusion