U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo backs Mississippi religious freedom bill

Congressman Steven Palazzo, R-4,released the following statement of support Monday regarding House Bill 1523 that passed in the Mississippi State Legislature:

“Last June, the Supreme Court announced their decision to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide.  I expressed my adamant disagreement and disappointment with this decision that undermines the Constitution and the will of the people of Mississippi.  Under the United States Constitution, marriage laws have always been a matter left for the states.

“Therefore, it should come as no shock that states stripped of their Constitutional authorities would take actions like this to protect the religious freedoms of their citizens.  Enough is enough. I continue to stand strong on this issue and support the objective of  this bill to protect individuals from government interference when practicing their religious beliefs.”

The Sun Herald and other critics say the bill discriminates against gays and lesbians.

This story was originally published April 4, 2016 at 1:42 PM.