HI HB1624

Establishes Hawaii Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 2014 to protect religious freedom and the free exercise of religion under state and federal constitutions.

Prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from substantially burdening a person's exercise of religion unless the burden furthers a compelling government interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that interest.

Applies the compelling interest test established in Sherbert v. Verner, 374 U.S. 398 (1963), as the standard for courts when religious exercise is substantially burdened.

Allows persons whose religious exercise has been substantially burdened to assert a violation as a claim or defense in judicial proceedings and seek relief against the state or its political subdivisions.

Declares legislative intent to balance the right to same-sex marriage with protections for religious organizations and believers who cannot conscientiously recognize or facilitate same-sex civil marriages.