SJR 14 Summary

• Proposes the "Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment" to the Arkansas Constitution, requiring voter approval at the next general election

• Establishes that government cannot burden a person's freedom of religion except when it demonstrates the burden furthers a compelling government interest and uses the least restrictive means to do so

• Applies to all government rules (statutes, regulations, ordinances, administrative provisions) regardless of when adopted, and allows persons to assert violations as claims or defenses in judicial or administrative proceedings

• Defines key terms including "government" (state branches, political subdivisions, and officials acting under color of law) and "rule" (various forms of Arkansas law)

• Becomes effective November 9, 2022, and is to be liberally construed to effectuate its remedial and deterrent purposes