VOTES TO SUPPORT RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS BY OPPOSING ENDA

Washington, Nov 7, 2007 - "Our Constitution guarantees us the right to exercise our religions freely, but this legislation would impose conditions on religious institutions that could undermine that freedom," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala). "Although workers should be protected from unfair employment discrimination, it should not come at the cost of our Constitutional right to practice religion."

Stearns today opposed passage of H.R. 3685, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would prohibit employment discrimination against an individual on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation by a covered entity. This measure makes "sexual orientation" a protected class status by providing a "comprehensive" federal prohibition of employment discrimination based on an individual's sexual orientation.

Explained Stearns, "Proponents of ENDA claim that there is an exemption for religious organizations, but that protection apparently does not apply to non-denominational religious schools and organizations. The bill also would subject the curriculum of these organizations to court review to determine if that curriculum advances a specific faith thus being exempted."

"Devout individuals could be forced to decide between adhering to their religious faith or complying with this law," added Stearns. "I do not believe that federal law should come between people and the right to practice their religion freely."