Georgia House approves religious freedom bill, sending it to Gov. Kemp’s desk

By HENRY DURAND, The Christian Index

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

ATLANTA — By a 96-70 vote, the Georgia House on Wednesday approved Senate Bill 36, clearing the way for Gov. Brian Kemp to sign the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) into law. The bill, which mirrors the federal RFRA enacted in 1993, previously passed the state Senate on March 4 and now awaits the governor’s signature.

“I want to congratulate those who worked for the passage of SB 36,” Kemp stated in a post on X.com. “I have always maintained that I would support and sign a version of RFRA which mirrors the language and protections provided by federal law since 1993. My commitment to that promise and to the deeply held beliefs of Georgians of faith remains unwavering. I also want to assure those of differing views that Georgia remains a welcoming place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The bill’s passage marks a long-sought victory for faith leaders and advocates who have pushed for greater legal protections for religious expression. Mike Griffin of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board called the vote a critical step toward safeguarding religious liberty in the state.

“We appreciate Senator Ed Setzler. We’re so thankful for our governor and the hard work that he has done,” Griffin said. “The commitment that he made to pass the Religious Freedom Restoration Act goes back to 2018, along with his support for the Heartbeat Bill that was passed.”

Since 2021, eight states have enacted RFRA laws, many with bipartisan support. Setzler emphasized that RFRA does not provide automatic exemptions from laws but ensures that religious rights receive fair consideration in legal disputes. “It simply puts the First Amendment right to free exercise on the same level as freedom of speech, press, and assembly,” he explained.

Griffin noted the outpouring of support for the bill in recent days, including a press conference by supporters held in the Capitol on Tuesday. “God bless you. Thank you so much for your prayers and support,” Griffin said. “And thank you for all of our Georgia Baptist churches and pastors and our members and for your help. Amen.”

--- PHOTOS ---

File: 20250402-232458-5de-sb36 vote.jpg

Caption: The display shows the final vote after the House passed SB36, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, by a vote of 96-70 on Wednesday night. (Photo/screen capture from House of Representatives)

File: 20250402-232538-911-IMG_20250402_225104 copy.jpg

Caption: Mike Griffin, public affairs representative of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, poses with Sen. Ed Setzler, right, after the House passed SB36, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, by a vote of 96-70 on Wednesday night. (Photo/Courtesy Mike Griffin)