Death of a Kentucky pastor who handled snakes renews church vs. state issue . The Cevallos : Supreme Court delineated key differences between religious thought , action . Action is always protected by law , but states can regulate action in interest of safety . However , equally as formidable is the state 's constitutionally reserved `` police power . '' Cevallos : Federal law provides for only minimal punishment for snake - handling .
Death of a Kentucky pastor who handled snakes renews church vs. state issue . The Cevallos : Supreme Court delineated key differences between religious thought , action . Action is always protected by law , but states can regulate action in interest of safety . Cevallos : Federal law provides for only minimal punishment for snake - handling .