Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits the disruption of worship services by protests in Louisiana.

Highlights:

• Specifies that a person is obstructing the freedom of worship at a church if they do any of the following to intimidate or interfere with any person lawfully exercising the right of religion at a place of worship (Sec. 1):

• Uses force or the threat of force;

• Uses physical obstruction;

• Injures or attempts to injure;

• Intentionally damages or destroys property;

• Willfully refuses or fails to leave the private property when requested to do so;

• Engages in disruptive activity; or

• Knowingly finances, funds, or provides material support to a person who is engaging or attempting to engage in disruptive activities designed to interfere with the freedom of worship.

• Establishes a penalty of a maximum of $25,000 and/or imprisonment with or without hard labor for a maximum period of 18 months (Sec. 1).

• Establishes a penalty of a maximum of 10 years of hard labor if the offence results in the harm of an individual (Sec. 1).

• Specifies that this Act is effective upon passage (Sec. 5).

Full Bill Text