STATEHOUSE (May 17, 2021) – Legislation supported by State Reps. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) and Shane Lindauer (R-Jasper) protecting Hoosiers' right to gather for religious worship services during future public emergencies is now law.
"The right to worship is fundamental, and Indiana took action to ensure churches and other places of worship are protected against restrictive mandates," Bartels said. "With this law, churches can continue meeting the needs of local communities and will not be forced to close in future public health emergencies."
During the early months of the pandemic, in-person religious services were prohibited, which Bartels said cut constituents off from critical services and connections. Senate Enrolled Act 263 prohibits the state or other government bodies from restricting the right to worship in-person, classifying religious gatherings as essential. Lindauer said other religious activities like food pantries, daycare or school services can also not be more restricted than other essential services.
"This law is a necessary safeguard we felt needs to be in place after many places of worship were told to either close their doors or limit service capacities and essential programs they offered," Lindauer said. "Just like many other Hoosiers, my faith is incredibly important and I believe churches fill a critical need in our communities."
Americans' mental health in 2020 was worse than at any point in the last two decades, according to an annual Gallup poll. Frequent church attendees showed the least change in their mental health ratings, which Lindauer said is a strong sign that religious institutions are vital to society.
Senate Enrolled Act 263 is effective July 1, 2021. Visit iga.in.gov for more information.
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State Rep. Stephen Bartels (R-Eckerty) represents House District 74,
which includes portions of Spencer, Dubois, Perry, Crawford and Orange counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
State Rep. Shane Lindauer (R- Jasper) represents House District 63,
which includes portions of Daviess, Dubois, Pike and Martin counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
