H.B. 1244 Summary

• Allows religious institutions and organizations to refuse providing services related to solemnization or celebration of same-sex relationships, including marriages or civil unions, if the service conflicts with their religious beliefs or faith.

• Protects religious institutions and organizations from civil liability for refusing such services when the refusal is made in accordance with the religious exemption provision.

• Clarifies that persons authorized to perform civil union solemnizations are not required to perform such ceremonies and cannot be penalized for refusing to do so for any reason.

• Maintains existing requirements that persons performing civil union solemnizations must obtain a license from the Department of Health under the same procedures as marriage solemnization licenses.

• Takes effect on January 2, 2012.