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U.S. Code as of:
01/19/04
Section 2000bb-1. Free exercise of religion protected
(a) In general
Government shall not substantially burden a person's exercise of
religion even if the burden results from a rule of general
applicability, except as provided in subsection (b) of this
section.
(b) Exception
Government may substantially burden a person's exercise of
religion only if it demonstrates that application of the burden to
the person -
(1) is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest;
and
(2) is the least restrictive means of furthering that
compelling governmental interest.
(c) Judicial relief
A person whose religious exercise has been burdened in violation
of this section may assert that violation as a claim or defense in
a judicial proceeding and obtain appropriate relief against a
government. Standing to assert a claim or defense under this
section shall be governed by the general rules of standing under
article III of the Constitution.
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