AZ HB2507

Declares religious services as essential services during a state of emergency and requires state government to allow religious organizations to operate to the same extent as other essential businesses.

Prohibits state government from taking discriminatory action against religious organizations based on their religious status, operation during emergencies, or exercise of religion protected by the First Amendment.

Allows religious organizations to comply with neutral health, safety, and occupancy requirements applicable to all essential services, but prohibits enforcement of requirements that substantially burden religious services unless the government demonstrates a compelling interest using the least restrictive means.

Permits religious organizations to assert violations of these protections as claims or defenses in judicial or administrative proceedings and to recover declaratory relief, injunctive relief, compensatory damages, and attorney fees against state government.

Exempts cases based on criminal conduct and tort actions brought by victims of criminal conduct against religious organizations from the bill's protections.