§17. Freedom of Worship in Churches or Other Places of Worship

            Section 17.(A) The freedom to worship in a church or other place of worship is a fundamental right that is worthy of the highest order of protection.

            (B) This Section shall not alter or limit Article I, Section 8 of this Constitution in any way. The free exercise of religion guaranteed by Article I, Section 8 of this Constitution shall not be limited to the fundamental right to worship in a church or other place of worship.

            (C) If a state or local governmental body or official acts in a manner that is contrary to the provisions of this Section and a challenge is brought related to that governmental action, the court shall apply strict scrutiny in order to protect the fundamental right to worship in a church or other place of worship, unless there is a higher level of protection or scrutiny recognized and applied by the court.

            Acts 2023, No. 30, §1, approved Oct. 14, 2023, eff. Nov. 20, 2023.