This article's factual accuracy may be compromised due to out-of-date information. (September 2017) |
House Bill 5958, also known as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, is a pending piece of legislation in Michigan that, opponents assert, may allow for the refusal of service, the denial of employment and of housing, and other actions that act against a citizen's rights if a person claims that working with or for that citizen would violate their religious freedom; however this much is only a speculation of the bills potential impacts. As it stands now, the bill moved to the Senate after passing in the house 59–50 along party lines.[1]
Michigan's Speaker of the House, Republican Jase Bolger, has argued that the proposed measure is intended to cover issues such as a conservative Christian baker refusing to allow same-sex couples as customers and an Orthodox Jewish family refusing an autopsy on a family member that had died. Thus, those people could cite the act for support if it is enacted into law.[1]
The measure has received opposition from organizations such as the Michigan Civil Rights Commission. Groups stating their support include the Michigan Catholic Conference. In general, the proposal has created an acrimonious partisan debate and also triggered multiple discussions by lawmakers in the state.[1]