The California Legislature is considering a bill, SB 397, that would force the governor to define churches as “an essential service” and makes it virtually impossible for the state to impose health, safety or occupancy requirements on church services due to an emergency.
Please join FFRF in calling on state lawmakers to reject this dangerous bill and instead prioritize the public safety of all California residents.
Governments already regularly limit worship gatherings that jeopardize public health. For instance, the government prohibits churches from cramming too many people into a building in violation of fire codes and also requires that church buildings comply with necessary building codes. Preventing large gatherings due to a pandemic is even more crucial.
Read FFRF’s Covid state/church resources guide for more information.
This bill will be heard by the Senate Judiciary Committee next Tuesday, April 13, at 1:30 p.m. local time. Please click on the red “Take Action!” link below to contact all members of this committee and urge them to oppose SB 397. Feel free to use or adapt the talking points provided.
