On the recordNovember 29, 2022
Yes, it is my understanding section 6(b) bars any civil claim or cause of action relating to a nonprofit religious organization's refusal under that section to solemnize or celebrate a marriage and that such a refusal cannot create a civil claim or cause of action. The text of section 7 also makes no reference to ``compelling governmental interests.'' Section 7 provides nothing in this bill should be construed to deny or alter the benefit, status, or right of an otherwise eligible individual or legal entity in relation to tax- exempt status, tax treatment, contracts, loans, scholarships, licenses, and other agreements not arising from a marriage. In conjunction with section 2 of this bill, which eliminates a successful analogy to the Bob Jones case, is it your understanding, Senator, that section 7 would prevent the Internal Revenue Service from using the Respect for Marriage Act to alter or remove the tax-exempt status of an entity for expressing beliefs in opposition or support of same-sex marriage?
