Broken Paragraphs
42 USC 2000bb-1
NB: This unofficial compilation of the U.S. Code is current as of Jan. 2, 2006 (see http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/uscprint.html).
- 1 -
TITLE 42 - THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND WELFARE
CHAPTER 21B - RELIGIOUS FREEDOM RESTORATION
§ 2000bb–1. Free exercise of religion protected
(a) In general
Government shall not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion even if the burden results
from a rule of general applicability, except as provided in subsection (b) of this section.
(b) Exception
Government may substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion only if it demonstrates that
application of the burden to the person—
(1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and
(2) is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling governmental interest.
(c) Judicial relief
A person whose religious exercise has been burdened in violation of this section may assert that
violation as a claim or defense in a judicial proceeding and obtain appropriate relief against a
government. Standing to assert a claim or defense under this section shall be governed by the general
rules of standing under article III of the Constitution..