Freedom of Religion

Question 1

Governmental Programs Showing preference to one religion over another

Answer 1

Strict Scrutiny applies

Question 2

Standard of review

Answer 2

Valid if:

1) it has secular purpose
2) its principal or primary effect neither advances nor inhibits religion
3) It does not result in excessive government entanglement with religion

Question 3

Aid to religious organizations

Answer 3

OK if it’s secular in nature (textbooks, computers, standardized tests, etc.)

Question 4

Tax Exemptions

Answer 4

OK if equivalent to exemptions given to other charitable organizations.

Question 5

Tax deductions to reimburse tuition expenses only for parents/students of religious schools

Answer 5

INVALID unless applied to all parents for all schools public or private.

Question 6

Religious activities in public school

Answer 6

violates the establishment clause:

1) Prayer or Bible reading
2) Meditation or voluntary prayer
3) Nondenominational Prayer
4) 10 Commandments
5) Prohibiting the teaching of darwinism

Question 7

10 Commandments

Answer 7

Only ok to be displayed if for moral message or social meaning.

Question 8

Christmas Displays

Answer 8

Xmas tree ok, nativity is not.

Question 9

Free Exercise Clause

Answer 9

Freedom to believe and freedom to act.

Question 10

State Laws intentionally targeting religion

Answer 10

Strict Scrutiny

Question 11

Religious Freedom Restoration Act

Answer 11

Fed Gov: even neutral laws are subject to SS if they substantially burden the free exercise of religion.

Question 12

Ministerial Exception

Answer 12

Hiring and Firing a minister is solely a church’s decision.