STATEHOUSE (April 28, 2021) – Legislation supported by State Reps. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) and Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) protecting Hoosiers' right to gather for religious worship services during future public emergencies is now law.
During the early months of the pandemic, in-person religious services were prohibited, which King 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. King said other religious activities like food pantries, daycare or school services also cannot be more restricted than other essential services.
"The right to assemble and worship wherever and however one pleases is historically protected by the First Amendment of the United States' Constitution," King said. "For so many Hoosiers, faith is everything. That's why the collateral damage of shutting down churches is so far reaching. I supported this legislation to help protect our ability to gather and worship in-person during future emergencies."
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 Miller said is a strong sign that religious institutions are vital to society.
"During difficult times, it's important to have a support system and many find this in their local churches," Miller said. "Putting restrictions on these organizations limits the immense good they do for our family, friends and neighbors. We also increase the risk of isolation, which can have negative impacts on their mental health."
Senate Enrolled Act 263 will go into effect July 1, 2021. Visit iga.in.gov for more information.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49, which includes the eastern portion of Elkhart County.
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State Rep. Doug Miller (R-Elkhart) represents House District 48, which includes portions of Elkhart County.
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