S.D. Codified Laws § 26-6-46

Current through the 2024 Legislative Session

Section 26-6-46 - Broad protection of free exercise of religious beliefs and moral convictions

The provisions of §§ 26-6-36 to 26-6-50, inclusive, shall be construed in favor of a broad protection of free exercise of religious beliefs and moral convictions, to the maximum extent afforded by the federal and state constitutions. The protection of free exercise of religious beliefs and moral convictions afforded by §§ 26-6-36 to 26-6-50, inclusive, is in addition to the protections provided under federal law, state law, and the federal and state constitutions. Nothing in this section may be construed to:

(1) Preempt or repeal any state or local law that is equally or more protective of free exercise of religious beliefs or moral convictions;

(2) Narrow the meaning or application of any state or local law protecting free exercise of religious beliefs or moral convictions; or

(3) Prevent the state from providing, either directly or through an individual or entity not seeking protection under §§ 26-6-36 to 26-6-50, inclusive, any benefit or service authorized under state law.

SDCL 26-6-46

SL 2017, ch 114, §11.

Added by S.L. 2017, ch. 114,s. 11, eff. 7/1/2017.