IV 115th CONGRESS 2d Session H. RES. 903 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES May 17, 2018 Mr. Brat submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Protecting 1st Amendment Rights of Free Speech and Free Exercise while condemning any form of criminal behavior, threats or violence.

Whereas in the past several years, violent crimes, threats of violence, and other incidents of targeting on the basis of religious beliefs or political opinions have occurred within the United States; Whereas, politically motivated organizations have fueled this hate by labeling persons and groups advocating policies based upon Judeo-Christian principles as hate groups and extremists ; Whereas, the labeling of certain religious and political viewpoints as hate groups or extremists has served to further fuel hatred and violence, rather than curb it; Whereas, this type of labeling has further validated the violent and aggressive attacks by those holding alternative views, and such attacks have occasioned the forced silencing of free speech on college campuses and at public events and rallies; and Whereas, the rights of free exercise of religion and freedom of speech are two of the greatest rights possessed by American citizens, and they are to be vigilantly preserved: Now, therefore, be it