Hate Crimes Spells Trouble for Pastors

There is troubling news coming out of the House Judiciary Committee, and it poses a threat to the free speech rights of our pastors and clergy. 

Our legislative affairs team is reporting that the Committee is scheduled today to consider H.R. 1913 - the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009.  This legislation would add sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of protected classes under federal hate crimes laws.
 
This is a very dangerous legislative approach for a number of reasons - including the fact that it would actually censor pastors and religious leaders.
 
Since the measure is crafted to prohibit "incitement to violence" - a pastor who preaches on the Biblical principles of sexuality could be prosecuted for a hate crime if someone in the congregation subsequently commits a violent crime.  While we certainly disavow violence aimed at any individual, it is unconscionable to think that a pastor or religious leader may no longer have the freedom to preach Biblical tenants from the pulpit. 
 
We are actively opposing this bill, and are also working to reveal the intent of the bill by asking Congressman and Senators to adopt language that ensures the protections guaranteed under the First Amendment.  Of course, proponents of the measure oppose such a change.
 
We will monitor this measure as it comes before the House Judiciary Committee today and subsequent action that may take place in both the House and Senate.  It is important that the free speech rights of pastors, clergy, and religious leaders - as well as all Americans - are protected.