‘Religious Freedom’ Bill Proposed By Local Lawmakers
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CHARLOTTE, NC – If a proposed bill is passed in North Carolina, local businesses and organizations could turn you away because of your personal beliefs.
The bill would allow business owners to refuse serving customers based on religion.
The “Religion Freedom Restoration Act” reads in part: “State action should not burden a person’s right to exercise of religion, even if the burden results in a rule of general applicability.”
The new bill was proposed this week by State Representatives Dan Bishop and Jacqueline Michelle Schaffer, who are both Republicans representing Mecklenburg County.
Opponents say the bill opens the door to discrimination.
“It’s designed to allow people to use religious freedom as a guise to discriminate against people and to refuse to abide by certain state laws,” said Sarah Preston, policy director for the ACLU of North Carolina.
Carrie Cassidy-Struble, owner of The Flower Diva in Pineville, has been making floral arrangements for straight, gay and lesbian couples’ weddings since she started her business 10 years ago.
“They support this business so why would I not support them?” said Cassidy-Struble.
But soon, business owners in North Carolina could decide if they want to serve gay couples or anyone else.
“I just think that’s plain crazy business. I mean, why would you let someone walk out your door?” said Cassidy-Struble.
Indiana’s Governor just signed a similar “Religious Freedom” bill into law Thursday.
“The signing of this bill doesn’t seem like it’s a step in the direction of equality, justice and liberty for all Americans,” said Josh Earnest, White House Press Secretary.
If a bill were to pass here in North Carolina, businesses or organizations could turn people away in the name of religious freedom.
“Business is business and personal is personal and you need to keep that separate,” said Cassidy-Struble.
WCCB Charlotte called and e-mailed both of the state representatives who sponsored the bill in North Carolina and WCCB did not hear back as of Friday night.
As far as Indiana, it is now the 20th state to adopt a “religious freedom restoration” law.
