Florida Pastor Protection Act (HB 43)

HB 43 provides that certain individuals and entities may not be required to solemnize a marriage or provide marriage-related goods, services, or accommodations if doing so would violate their sincerely held religious beliefs.

The protected individuals and entities include:

• A church;
• A religious organization;
• A religious corporation or association;
• A religious fraternal benefit society;
• A religious school or educational institution;
• An integrated auxiliary of a church;
• An individual employed by a church or religious organization while acting in the scope of that employment;
• A clergy member; or
• A minister.

A refusal by any listed individual or entity to solemnize a marriage or provide marriage-related services, goods, or accommodations may not serve as the basis for a civil cause of action. Additionally, the refusal may not serve as the basis for the state or its political subdivisions to impose penalties or withhold any benefits or privileges, including tax exemptions or governmental contracts, grants, or licenses.

STATUS

Signed by Governor. Law went into effect on July 1, 2016.

Companion to SB 110, which was tabled.

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