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Washington, DC - Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN) voted no on H.R. 5, the Equality Act. 

“The Equality Act is an attempt by the far-left to dictate and punish Americans who hold different views on the issues of marriage and gender. The most outrageous and harmful provision in this bill is the nullification of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which means Americans with conscientious objections to the far-left’s beliefs will be defenseless in our justice system. This will greatly erode religious liberty and roll back decades of pro-life achievements,” said Congressman Jim Baird.

The Equality Act explicitly states the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) of 1993 could no longer serve as a defense for Americans based on religious belief. Groups like the Little Sisters of the Poor and private businesses like Hobby Lobby have used RFRA in recent years to defend the right to express their religious beliefs as they see fit. With the passage of the Equality Act, the Little Sisters of the Poor will be the target of government simply for their pro-life views.

In addition, this legislation would eliminate the Hyde Amendment resulting in taxpayer dollars being used to fund abortion, demand employers to cover abortion, and require medical providers to participate in abortion. By not allowing any conscientious objections, this legislation will effectively silence and force Americans to violate their religious beliefs.

“Hoosiers from across the district have contacted our office to share their concerns about the Equality Act and what it means for their children. Many parents worry about allowing men access to women restrooms and about biological males competing in female sports,” continued Congressman Baird. “This bill is the far-left trying to compel their views on the entire country and to those who object will face the threat of government prosecution. Congress should instead protect individual freedom and allow Americans who hold differing views to peacefully coexist.”

The bill will also force schools and businesses to allow individuals access to restrooms, locker rooms, and dressing rooms of their opposite sex.

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