HB 1523, also known as the Religious Accommodations Act, was taken up by federal judges of the Circuit Court of Appeals in Lubbock, Texas, on Monday.
HB 1523 started making national headlines last year. It would allow for businesses to claim a religious exemption for denying service to anyone that violates or lives against religious beliefs. For example, a bakery could choose to turn away a same-sex couple searching for a wedding cake.
The law was blocked by a federal judge just hours before it would have gone into effect last year.
Monday, oral arguments were heard from both sides of the aisle. Governor Phil Bryant told News Mississippi he is optimistic about the judges’ pending decision.
“It normally takes about sixty days,” said Governor Phil Bryant. “We believe that we will prevail.”
Related: Mississippi’s polarizing religious liberties law back in court
News Mississippi will continue to follow HB 1523 through the court system.
Related:
Governor Bryant signs HB 1523 into law: both supporters and opposers react
HB 1523 blocked, lawmakers react
Governor Phil Bryant appeals judge’s ruling on HB 1523
Attorney General will not appeal block on HB 1523
Judge denies motion to enact HB 1523 during the appeal process
