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HR 140

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY

104th Regular Session Introduced by Brad Halbrook

Illinois bill designates January 16th as Religious Freedom Day to commemorate Thomas Jefferson's Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom and religious liberty principles.

Referred to Rules Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 140

Legislative bill overview

HR 140 establishes a Religious Freedom Day in Illinois to commemorate January 16th, recognizing the historical significance of Thomas Jefferson's Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. The bill designates this day as an official observance and calls for appropriate recognition and celebration throughout the state.

Why is this important

Religious Freedom Day commemorations highlight the separation of church and state principle and religious liberty protections that are foundational to American governance. Such observances can serve educational purposes about constitutional rights, though their practical impact depends on whether they include mandatory observances, funding, or remain symbolic.

Potential points of contention

  • Secular vs. religious framing: Some may question whether a state-designated religious freedom day appropriately balances honoring religious liberty while maintaining government neutrality on religious matters
  • Resource allocation: Debate may arise over whether state resources should be directed toward promoting observances, or whether it should remain purely symbolic
  • Competing interpretations: Different groups may have divergent views on what "religious freedom" means—some emphasizing individual rights to practice religion, others emphasizing protection from religious establishment in government

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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