Opposing Enactment of Senate Enrolled Act 101 Otherwise Known as the "Religious Freedom Restoration Act" (RFRA)
This resolution is co-sponsored by the entire Council. It opposes the recent enactment of Senate Enrolled Act 101, otherwise known as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). The resolution recounts the City’s celebration of diversity and its long and sustained history of protecting the human and civil rights of its residents. It then describes RFRA, how it differs from other such laws around the country, the uncertainties it raises for the status of local ordinances, and its damaging effect within the State and on its reputation across the country. Lastly, the resolution: urges repeal of the RFRA; urges enactment of legislation making sexual orientation and gender identity protected classes in the Indiana Code; declares that local provisions meet the newly codified standards necessary to rebut a challenge under the statute; and, direct the City Clerk to send the resolution to various leaders in the State.