Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty

May 9, 2017

Summary

Makes sure the government protects the rights of people and religious groups to speak freely about their beliefs and politics without being punished.

What problem does this solve?

Some religious groups felt the government was unfairly punishing them for speaking about moral or political issues. This order tells federal agencies to protect religious and political speech and not take negative action against these groups, especially regarding their tax status.

What does this order do?

Protects political speech from religious organizations

Directs the Department of the Treasury not to take negative action, such as revoking tax-exempt status, against religious groups that speak about moral or political issues from a religious viewpoint.

Allows conscience objections to preventive care

Requires federal agencies to consider creating new rules that allow for conscience-based objections to the Affordable Care Act's preventive-care mandate.

Issues guidance on religious liberty

Orders the Attorney General to issue guidance to all federal agencies on how to interpret and apply religious freedom protections found in federal law.

Who does this affect?

Religious organizations
Employers with conscience-based objections to healthcare mandates
Federal agencies

What is the real world impact?

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Addresses conscience-based objections to healthcare

Directs agencies to reconsider rules that require employers to provide preventive care, such as contraception, if they have religious or moral objections to it.

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Strengthens political influence of religious groups

Allows religious organizations to speak more freely on political issues without risking their tax-exempt status, potentially increasing their role in elections.

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Weakens enforcement against political activity by churches

Critics argue this order discourages the IRS from enforcing rules that prohibit tax-exempt organizations from endorsing or opposing political candidates, which could blur the separation of church and state.

When does this start?

This order went into effect when it was signed on May 4, 2017.