VA Gov. Youngkin signs bill enhancing religious freedom protections

The following quote may be attributed to Alliance Defending Freedom Senior Counsel Gregory S. Baylor regarding Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s signing Friday of HB 1063, a bill that clarifies that, under certain commonwealth statutes, the definition of “religion” includes not just belief but expression and action as well:

“All Americans are guaranteed the right to free speech and the free exercise of religion. Government officials have a duty to protect and promote these freedoms. HB 1063 provides a necessary and helpful clarification in the law to help ensure Virginians won’t face discrimination simply for outwardly expressing their religious beliefs. Virginia law forbids discrimination on the basis of religion in multiple contexts yet fails to define the actual term ‘religion,’ which can leave Virginians vulnerable to hostile reactions to expressions of their faith. We commend Gov. Youngkin and the Virginia General Assembly for resolving this ambiguity so that Virginians can freely live out their faith without fear of government punishment.”

Alliance Defending Freedom is an alliance-building, non-profit legal organization committed to protecting religious freedom, free speech, parental rights, and the sanctity of life.

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