article_snippet: HB1228 is also named the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and uses the same wording as the Indiana legislation.
article_snippet: the Indiana legislation forbids the state or local government from 'substantially burdening' a person's religious beliefs unless that burden is 'essential' to further a 'compelling' government interest, and is the 'least restrictive' means of achieving that aim.
article_snippet: It allows people or organisations to use the Indiana legislation as a defense in court against claims of discrimination against people or organisations, and if court rules in court favor, allows reparations, including compensation payouts.
article_snippet: Indiana's religious freedom act says that the state and local government 'may not substantially burden a person's right to the exercise of religion' unless that burden is 'essential' to furthering a government interest.
article_snippet: It will be up to the courts to decide what counts as 'substantial', but the Indiana legislation was largely designed to fend off lawsuits against those who refuse to participate in gay marriage ceremonies.
highlights_snippet: Law forbids government from 'substantially burdening' religious beliefs .