House panel OKs bill to block governor from closing churches, businesses during emergency
A Georgia House panel on Wednesday voted to approve legislation aimed at reining in the powers governors have during a public emergency.
Senate Bill 200 would bar the governor from enacting any guidelines that “specifically limit the practice of any religion” during a declared state of emergency. Businesses and nonprofits also would be able to operate as long as they meet safety protocols as established by the governor.
State Sen. Jason Anavitarte, a Dallas Republican and the bill’s sponsor, said a public emergency shouldn’t overrule Georgians’ ability to worship — or continue to run their businesses.
“What we’re trying to accomplish here is just ensuring we are absolutely protecting the free exercise of religious beliefs during a state of emergency or any other time,” Anavitarte said.
Several Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee said Wednesday that the legislation seemed unnecessary, citing a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that determined California could not stop churches from holding indoor services.
“If this bill is in line with the Supreme Court ruling, why do we need it?” asked state Rep. Mary Margaret Oliver, D-Decatur.
About the Author
Maya T. Prabhu covers the Georgia Senate and statewide issues as a government reporter for The AJC. Born in Queens, New York, and raised in northern Virginia, Maya attended Spelman College and then the University of Maryland for a master's degree. She writes about social issues, the criminal justice system and legislative politics.
