This bill establishes state preemption over the regulation of religious services and gatherings, ensuring that local governments cannot impose ordinances that significantly hinder the free exercise of religion. It mandates that such services be allowed on properties zoned for residential or commercial use, including homes and businesses, and prohibits local governments from restricting parking related to attendance at these events. Any conflicting local regulations will be rendered void and unenforceable. Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes to prevent local enforcement agencies from denying building permits or certificates of occupancy based on noncompliance with certain landscaping ordinances, particularly after natural disasters, and it defines mutual benefit corporations while preempting local regulation of them.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions that prevent local governments from imposing restrictions on mutual benefit corporations that differ from those applied to other businesses, including regulations on events, rentals, and internal governance. Individuals adversely affected by such local regulations are granted the right to seek civil action for relief and recover attorney fees if successful. The bill also amends statutes related to home-based businesses, allowing local governments to regulate parking and storage of vehicles and heavy equipment with specific limitations, such as not regulating parking for vehicles on residentially zoned land if the parcel is greater than 2 acres. This aims to provide more flexibility for home-based businesses while maintaining some local oversight. The act will take effect upon becoming law.

Statutes affected:
S 1444 Filed: 559.955