Religious liberty and individual states

By K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
During this election season, the presidential race is the primary focus for political energy. That makes sense, given the important role of the presidency and the varied and tremendous challenges our government faces. In many states, however, there are also election efforts under way with ramifications for religious liberty specifically.

Rallying support for religious freedom

By K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
Summer, especially near July Fourth, is a good time for congregations and religious communities to host an annual religious freedom emphasis.Too often we take our freedom for granted, giving little thought to the big ideas that make our country special.

From the July/August 2012 Report from the Capital.

Churches and political campaigns

Written by K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
In an election year, many people feel the heightened sense of responsibility that comes with living in a democracy. We all should. Despite the problems of excessive partisanship, negative campaigning and corporate influence over our elections, the right to vote and get involved in campaigns is a privilege that shouldn’t be taken for granted. …
From the June 2012 Report from the Capital

Conscience, contraception and conflict over religious freedom

By K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
The constitutional challenge to the Affordable Care Act is clearly the biggest story in the ongoing national health care debate. A significant subplot, however, is the implementation of rules requiring contraception coverage in health insurance plans as applied to objecting religious employers. …
From the April 2012 Report from the Capital

Separating issues from political rhetoric

By K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
Exaggerated claims are perhaps to be expected when religious liberty collides with other significant governmental interests. In the ongoing debate about religious institutions’ objections to the contraception coverage mandate in the Affordable Care Act, much of the rhetoric has been harsh and misleading….
From the March 2012 Report from the Capital

Supreme Court lets prayer decisions stand

Written by K. Hollyn Hollman, BJC General Counsel
Recent decisions reflect a proper application of religious liberty case law, recognizing that sectarian prayers by public officials undermine religious liberty and degrade religion by entangling it with government. The Supreme Court was right to deny the public officials’ request for review — in one case, a school board, and in another, a county board of commissioners.