NC H776

Prohibits state action from burdening a person's exercise of religion unless the government demonstrates the burden is essential to a compelling governmental interest and uses the least restrictive means available

Makes it an unlawful discriminatory housing practice for governmental entities or homeowners' associations to restrict religious gatherings in dwellings or burden religious practice in neighborhoods

Creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue for violations, with available remedies including attorneys' fees, injunctive relief, declaratory relief, and compensatory damages

Bars religious institutions from being subject to emergency orders or regulations that impose additional limitations beyond what applies to other public or private entities during emergencies

Defines "burden" broadly to include withholding benefits, assessing penalties, or exclusion from government programs; applies to individuals, corporations, churches, and other legal entities