Tennessee: Law on religion causes unease

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Act sets stage for legal challenges to state statutes, local ordinances

A law approved by the Legislature in June has set the stage for legal challenges to multiple state statutes and local ordinances that interfere with professed religious beliefs, according to an article published by the Tennessee Municipal League.

"Tennessee state and local governments will now face an uphill battle in upholding laws of general applicability when someone claiming religious offense cries foul," the article states.

It cites examples from other states that have enacted a similar "Religious Freedom Restoration Act," including:

n A 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in July that struck down a Euless, Texas, ordinance prohibiting animal sacrifice within the city limits.

n A June decision in another Texas case that invalidated a zoning ordinance that prohibited locating a halfway house for convicts in some areas when the facility was to be operated by a minister.

n A 2008 Washington, D.C., case that voided a regulation forbidding firemen from having facial hair, "despite ample evidence showing the danger it can cause."

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Law on religion causes unease Knoxville News Sentinel