OH HR194

Urges the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom to consider adding Canada to its Special Watch List of countries with government violations of religious freedom.

Cites specific incidents during COVID-19 pandemic including arrest of Pastor James Coates of Edmonton for 35 days for holding religious services, and arrests of pastors Artur and David Pawlowski for services violating social distancing rules.

References Canada's Senate Bill C-4, which became law on December 8, 2021, imposing up to five years imprisonment for expressing biblical views of marriage and restricting religious expression on sexuality.

Documents Canadian provincial prohibitions on religious gatherings in private homes, outdoor services, and size limitations on indoor and outdoor religious meetings during COVID-19 emergency.

Directs House Clerk to transmit resolution to U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom commissioners, President, Congressional leaders, Canadian government officials, and Ohio news media.