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Committee passes nonbinding resolution affirming religious freedom, 3–1
Summary
The committee advanced HCR 4, a nonbinding concurrent resolution reaffirming religious freedom and encouraging respectful dialogue across faiths; testimony was largely supportive while one senator voiced concern that the resolution may privilege particular values.
Representative Peterson presented HCR 4 as a statement affirming religious freedom and encouraging mutual respect among diverse traditions. "This isn't about favoring one religion," Representative Peterson said, describing the resolution as a nonbinding affirmation of First Amendment protections.
Public witnesses included Stan Rasmussen of the Sutherland Institute, who read a statement endorsing the resolution; Rachel Williams, a BYU student and office manager for Utah Eagle Ford, who said HCR 4 reaffirms protections for public expressions of faith; and Delaine England of United Women's Forum who argued that education requires grounding in virtue and civic character. Senator Eby opposed the resolution on grounds it could emphasize some religious values to the exclusion of others, while Senator Baldry moved to pass the resolution with a favorable recommendation. The committee approved HCR 4 by a 3–1 vote with Senator Reby recorded in opposition.
