Texas House Bill HB4497

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to protecting freedom of conscience from government discrimination for businesses and other persons.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4497 could lead to substantial changes in state law concerning how governmental entities interact with individuals and businesses that assert their religious beliefs or moral convictions. This could potentially limit the government's ability to enforce contracts, grants, or services to those who do not align with particular governmental standards. As such, those involved in providing marriage-related services may find legal support against actions taken by the government that they perceive as discriminatory due to their beliefs.

Summary

House Bill 4497 aims to protect the freedom of conscience of businesses and individuals against government discrimination. This bill introduces Chapter 110A to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, defining 'discriminatory actions' taken by governmental entities that could affect various benefits and privileges for individuals or businesses, particularly in contexts related to sincerely held religious beliefs or moral convictions. The bill places a significant emphasis on protecting the belief that marriage should be defined as the union of one man and one woman.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4497 include concerns from advocacy groups that this legislation could enable discrimination against individuals based on sexual orientation or gender identity under the guise of protecting religious beliefs. Critics argue that the bill could undermine anti-discrimination laws and promote inequality, while supporters contend that it safeguards the rights of individuals to operate according to their personal beliefs and conscience. The balance between individual freedoms and anti-discrimination principles is at the heart of the debate over this bill.