Supporters rally for Georgia's Religious Freedom Restoration Act Senate Bill 36

The Georgia Judiciary Committee convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 36, known as the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The bill aims to protect the rights of individuals to practice their faith without government interference. Several witnesses provided testimony in support of the legislation, emphasizing the importance of religious freedom in fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

One prominent speaker, a Cobb County resident and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared personal experiences of religious persecution in Colorado. He highlighted the historical struggles faced by his faith community and expressed gratitude for the protections that the proposed bill would offer. He argued that the legislation would not only safeguard individual rights but also encourage solidarity among different faiths, creating a stronger community in Georgia.

O'Shea Vega, a Christian minister and community leader, also voiced her support for the bill. She underscored the significance of the First Amendment and the need to prevent government overreach in religious matters. Vega asserted that the bill would ensure equality for all faiths and protect individuals from discrimination based on their beliefs.

Bishop John Citizen, representing a Pentecostal church, echoed these sentiments, advocating for equal protections for Christians similar to those sought by the LGBTQ community. He emphasized the importance of allowing individuals to practice their faith freely without external pressures or mandates.

The meeting concluded without opposition testimony, indicating a strong consensus among supporters of the bill. The discussions highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding religious freedom and the balance between individual rights and government regulation. As the committee prepares to vote on Senate Bill 36, the outcome could have significant implications for religious communities across Georgia.