California Assembly approves bill protecting Native religious practices on state lands
Measure would protect California Indian religious practices, expand access to sacred sites and allow accommodations for carrying sacred items in the state Capitol
California Assembly members approved a measure that would establish enforceable protections for the free exercise of California Indian religious and spiritual practices on state lands, Assemblymember James C. Ramos said in a June 1 statement. The bill would prohibit state agencies from substantially burdening a California tribe's religious practices, allow access to sacred sites on state public lands and permit the gathering of traditional plants, foods and other materials used in tribal religious practices.
The bill would require the government to demonstrate a compelling interest pursued through the least restrictive means before taking actions that substantially burden California Indian religious practices. The measure also would allow California Indians to carry sacred items into the state Capitol with appropriate accommodations. The bill's sponsor, Indigenous Justice, said the legislation is intended to strengthen protections for tribal religious freedom on state lands. The bill now advances to the California Senate.
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