House approves religious nondiscrimination bill after hours of debate

The Arkansas House of Representatives on April 2025 passed House Bill 16‑15, legislation sponsored by Representative Lundstrom that supporters described as protecting religious freedom in interactions with government and in certain employment decisions at religious institutions. The measure passed on a floor vote of 66 yeas, 17 nays and 7 present.

Supporters said the bill limits government action that would force individuals or religious organizations to act contrary to their faith. Representative Lundstrom, the bill sponsor, said the measure “prevents government from taking away religious freedom” and that it “protects religious organizations regarding employment and ... when someone's seeking a license.” He told colleagues that a public official who objects to issuing a marriage license, for example, must recuse in writing ahead of time.

Opponents said the bill would enable discrimination by state actors. Representative McCullough said Arkansas already provides religious freedom under the Constitution and warned that new statutory exemptions can leave vulnerable people without predictable access to government services. “When someone goes down to the government office ... they should not be made to feel other,” McCullough said, and said he would vote no. Representative Collins argued the measure would allow state employees and others licensed by the state to refuse services, reducing access to care and increasing discrimination.

Representative Lundstrom, closing debate, said the bill was intended to prevent prosecution of people acting on conscience and reiterated that recipients would still be able to obtain government documents such as marriage certificates: “If there isn't someone that can step in immediately, guess what — they're going to get that marriage certificate,” he said, adding the bill requires recusal in advance.

The House clerk reported passage by voice and machine — final tally 66 yeas, 17 nays, 7 present.

Why it matters: Supporters framed the measure as a guard against government overreach into religious exercise. Opponents said it would allow government employees and state‑licensed professionals to decline services to members of the public on religious grounds, potentially creating uneven access to government services and licensed care.

Next steps: As an enacted House bill, HB16‑15 will go to the Senate for consideration.

Votes and formal action: Passage of House Bill 16‑15 — motion carried by recorded ballot: 66 yeas, 17 nays, 7 present.