The 136th General Assembly of Ohio has introduced a concurrent resolution urging the federal government to repeal the Johnson Amendment, which restricts the political activities of nonprofit organizations, including churches. The resolution, named the Leland Muhlenberg Resolution, argues that the Johnson Amendment infringes upon the First Amendment rights of free speech and religious expression. It highlights historical instances where religious leaders played significant roles in advocating for freedom and governance, asserting that the amendment has been used to intimidate religious organizations from engaging in political discourse.
The resolution calls on key federal officials, including the President and members of Congress, to take action to repeal the Johnson Amendment, thereby aligning federal law with the constitutional protections of religious freedom. It emphasizes the importance of religious institutions in American history and governance, citing various founding figures and documents that reflect the intertwining of faith and civic responsibility. The resolution concludes with a directive for the Clerk of the House to transmit copies to relevant federal and state officials, as well as the media.