House Bill No. aims to amend the Preservation of Religious Freedom Act by enhancing protections for places of worship in Louisiana. The bill stipulates that the government cannot substantially burden an individual's exercise of religion unless it can demonstrate that such a burden serves a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of achieving that interest. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that mandate the government to provide the highest level of protection to all churches, synagogues, temples, and other places of worship.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the government from imposing restrictions on places of worship that are more severe than those applied to secular businesses, services, or assemblies. This ensures that religious organizations are treated equitably and not subjected to greater limitations than their non-religious counterparts. Overall, the proposed law seeks to reinforce the free exercise of religion and safeguard the rights of religious institutions within the state.

Statutes affected:
HB371 Original: