Mississippi Pastor Protection Act (HB 846)

HB 846 would prohibit a religious organization, an organization supervised or controlled by or in connection with a religious organization, an individual employed by a religious organization or a clergy member, Rabbi, minister or other spiritual leader from being required to solemnize a marriage or provide goods or services for a wedding ceremony.

A religious entity or clergy member that refuses to provide services, accommodations, facilities, goods or privileges for a wedding ceremony would be protected from civil or criminal cause of action.

The First Amendment already covers the right of religious organizations to refuse to perform marriages that conflict with their religious beliefs.

If passed, the law would take effect immediately.

Related Legislation

Similar to HB 737 and HB 587, both of which failed to pass in 2016.

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