Religious freedom protected

R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-80.1-3., under Chapter 42-80.1 Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-80.1-3.

(a) Except as provided for in subsection (b), a governmental authority may not restrict a person’s free exercise of religion.

(b) A governmental authority may restrict a person’s free exercise of religion only if:

(1) The restriction is in the form of a rule of general applicability, and does not intentionally discriminate against religion, or among religions; and

(2) The governmental authority proves that application of the restriction to the person is essential to further a compelling governmental interest, and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling governmental interest.