H.R. 8353: Freedom Against Imposed Theology Harms Act

This bill, known as the Freedom Against Imposed Theology Harms Act (or FAITH Act), aims to establish regulations against the imposition of fees related to religious participation. Here’s a breakdown of its key provisions:

Prohibition on Fees

• The bill specifically prohibits any individual or organization from knowingly imposing or collecting fees, fines, surcharges, or other financial obligations from a person based on their participation or non-participation in a religious group or organization.
• Violators of this prohibition could face legal consequences, including:
  • A fine or imprisonment for up to one year if the financial obligation does not exceed $1,000.
  • A fine or imprisonment for up to three years for larger amounts or other related offenses.

Denying Access to Goods and Services

• The bill also makes it illegal to deny goods, services, or opportunities to someone because they refuse to pay a prohibited fee related to religious participation. Penalties for this offense mirror those applied to the imposition of fees.

Clarification on Contributions

• It clarifies that this legislation does not prevent religious organizations or educational institutions from seeking voluntary financial contributions from their members for internal purposes.

Inclusion in RICO Offenses

• The bill amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act to include offenses related to fees that are tied to religious participation.

Effective Date

• The provisions of this act would take effect 30 days after it is enacted into law.

Relevant Companies

• None found