JACKSON, MS (localmemphis.com) - A new religious freedom bill is confusing people across the state. <\/p>\n
Civil rights activists and Mississippi lawmakers are buzzing about the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. <\/p>\n
Supporters said it protects religious rights. Opponents said it enables discrimination. <\/p>\n
Most people Local 24 talked with have never heard of the bill and don't understand what the point of it is. <\/p>\n
Senate bill 2681 was just passed Tueasay, and governor Phil Bryant is expected to sign it into law. <\/p>\n
But what exactly is the Mississippi religious freedom restoration act? <\/p>\n
The law basically allows people to sue the government if they feel their religious freedom is being violated. <\/p>\n
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. <\/p>\n
The language is enough to confuse some. <\/p>\n
Opponents say the act is unnecessary, too broad, and could use religion to justify discrimination against gays and lesbians. <\/p>\n
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Read more: <\/p>\n
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