Recent News & Columns
Here are recent columns and news items from the Baptist Joint Committee. Visit our blog and read our monthly magazine, Report from the Capital, to stay current on all religious liberty news. You can also read our press releases online.
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U.S. Supreme Court rules 8-1 in favor of death row inmate requesting permission for spiritual advisor to lay hands, pray audibly with him in execution chamber
In Ramirez v. Collier, the Supreme Court found in favor of a prisoner who asked that his pastor be present in the execution chamber, lay hands on him, and pray audibly in his final moments. The Court said the state was not likely to meet its burden under RLUIPA to demonstrate that the regulation barring such activities was necessary to achieve its safety interests.
Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmation hearings: Religious liberty roundup from day three
During the third day of her Supreme Court confirmation hearing, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson was asked about the importance of the free exercise of religion by two members of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmation hearings: Religious liberty roundup from day two
Day two of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation hearings included questions on topics related to religious liberty and the role of faith in making judicial determinations.
BJC’s review of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s record
BJC urges the Senate to engage Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson in thoughtful ways about her understanding and approach to the fundamental and foundational right of religious liberty.
Ohio law allows student athletes to compete with hijabs and other religious apparel
A new law in Ohio guarantees the right of students who participate in athletics to wear religious apparel during competition without the need to obtain a waiver or otherwise receive permission in advance.
Pentagon asks Supreme Court to lift injunction barring vaccine mandate for military personnel, plus developments in other vaccine mandate cases
While the number of COVID-19 cases appear to be declining across the country and restrictions are being lifted, a number of lawsuits over enforcing vaccine mandates against a religious objector continue to work their way through our court systems.
How the war on Ukraine impacts religious liberty
Among the multitude of tragedies unfolding in Ukraine as a result of Russia’s invasion is the increased threat to religious liberty in Ukraine if subject to Russian rule.
It’s Public Schools Week! Public education needs our support now more than ever
Supporting a robust public education system is an incredibly important component of maintaining faith freedom for all.
Oklahoma bill would penalize teachers $10,000 for contradicting student religious beliefs
A controversial bill proposed in the Oklahoma state senate would make public school personnel – including teachers – personally liable for promoting positions in opposition to a student’s closely held religious beliefs.
Missouri governor suggests a religious test for state office, Ohio Senate candidate calls church-state separation a “myth”
Those of us who believe in faith freedom for all call out even indirect suggestions that a public servant is disqualified because of religious views.