HF 609: Relating to the use of certain psychoactive substances under the religious freedom restoration Act

What it does

This bill relates to the use of certain psychoactive substances under the religious freedom restoration Act (Code chapter 675). The bill provides that the “exercise of religion” includes the use of psychoactive substances, including but not limited to psilocybin and peyote, in religious or spiritual ceremonies. The bill provides that state action shall not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion, even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability, including but not limited to Code chapter 124 concerning controlled substances, unless the government demonstrates that applying the burden to that person’s exercise of religion is in furtherance of a compelling governmental interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling governmental interest.

Lobbying · 0 for, 2 against

Against: Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church; Iowans for Medical Marijuana

In plain words

1. February 26, 2025Filed in the House and sent to the Judiciary committee