Free Exercise of Religion (1st Amendment)

Question 1

The 1st Amendment guarantees each person’s right to practice (or not to practice)

Answer 1

any religion they so choose

Question 2

A person need not be a member of a _______ or _______in order to be protected

Answer 2

traditional or formal religion

Question 3

In evaluating a free exercise claim the courts will only look to see

Answer 3

whether the person sincerely believes the tenants of their religion and never evaluates the merits of the religion’s tenets.

Question 4

Laws infringing upon Free Exercise of Religion must be

Answer 4

“neutral and of general applicability” to be constitutional.

Question 5

What does it mean for a law to be neutral in the context of the Free Exercise of Religion?

Answer 5

Laws that are not specifically aimed at religious people or religious organizations.

Question 6

What does it mean for a law to be generally applicable in the context of the Free Exercise of Religion?

Answer 6

Laws that apply to religious and non-religious persons and organizations equally.