INDIANAPOLIS — The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana has filed a new lawsuit claiming the state's new abortion law violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
It comes a little over the week after the ACLU and other organizations, including Planned Parenthood, filed a separate lawsuit challenging Senate Enrolled Act 1, arguing the legislation violates privacy rights and equal privileges protections.
The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Hoosier Jews for Choice and five women who have religious beliefs that they must be able to obtain an abortion "under circumstances prohibited by S.E.A. 1," according to Thursday a news release from the ACLU.
"RFRA, a law that passed the Indiana legislature in 2015, prohibits government action that interferes with a person’s religious exercise, unless the government can prove it has a compelling reason for doing so that is the least restrictive alternative available," the release states.
The lawsuit argues that although some religions believe that human life begins at conception, that opinion isn't shared by all religions or religious people.
The plaintiffs represent faiths including Judaism, Islam and "independent spiritual beliefs", according to the release.
“Indiana’s RFRA law protects religious freedom for all Hoosiers, not just those who practice Christianity,” said Ken Falk, ACLU of Indiana Legal Director in a statement. “The ban on abortion will substantially burden the exercise of religion by many Hoosiers who, under the new law, would be prevented from obtaining abortions, in conflict with their sincere religious beliefs.”
A full copy of the lawsuit is available here.
-
Dust, dirt and debris: Why breathing isn't always easy on the farm
Whether it is dust from the fields being harvested or dust from livestock bedding, farmers are constantly breathing it.
Fan excitement is high after IU Hoosiers' statement win over Oregon Ducks
Indiana defeated #3 Oregon on Saturday. The unbeaten Hoosiers replaced the Ducks as the #3 team in the Associated Press poll this week, which is Indiana's highest ranking in program history.
Hamilton Co. grows as Westfield welcomes new North American headquarters
Hamilton County’s growth continues to surge as Westfield officials celebrated another major business development Monday, highlighting the city’s rapid expansion and appeal to employers.
From hardships to hiring: New Indy nonprofit helps men suit up for success
In Pursuit Of, Inc. is helping veterans, men re-entering the workforce and those just dealing with financial hardships look and feel their professional best.
