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The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) of 1993 is a federal law that protects individuals' rights to practice their religion freely. It was enacted in response to the Supreme Court's decision in Employment Division v. Smith, which allowed states to enforce laws that could burden religious practices. The RFRA reinstates the 'strict scrutiny' standard for laws affecting religious exercise and has influenced both federal and state legal systems, leading to various state-level RFRAs and ongoing debates about religious freedom.
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Congress passed the RFRA in 1993 to protect religious liberty after the Supreme Court's decision in Employment Division v. Smith
The RFRA was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in Congress
The RFRA represents a legislative commitment to preserving religious freedom, a fundamental principle in American history
The RFRA was originally intended to apply to both federal and state governments, but was limited to federal actions by the Supreme Court in City of Boerne v. Flores
Many states have enacted their own versions of the RFRA, known as "mini RFRAs," to protect religious freedom at the state level
The RFRA continues to play a vital role in resolving conflicts between religious freedom and governmental policies, as seen in cases such as Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc
State RFRAs vary in their application and protections for religious freedom, with some states applying a stricter standard than others
State RFRAs have been applied to a wide range of issues, demonstrating the ongoing negotiation between religious liberty and other societal interests
The RFRA's evolution and enduring impact on federal and state legal systems exemplifies its pivotal role in the ongoing discourse surrounding religious freedom in the United States