Even during a worldwide pandemic, the government is unable to force religious outlets from closing its doors in the state of Texas.
“A government agency or public official may not issue an order that closes or has the effect of closing places of worship in the state or in a geographic area of the state,” according to a bill which was enacted into law immediately after being signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Abbott signed the bill about a year after shutting down the state of Texas in which churches and places of worship were deemed nonessential, forcing them to close. Faith leaders took to lawsuits against Abbott’s orders and called for houses of worship to be designated as essential.
“The unprecedented closure of churches, mosques, and synagogues in 2020 negatively impacted many who were struggling with isolation and stress during the pandemic,” Texas House Republican Caucus said in a statement after the first version of the bill passed the House in April. “These closures were ultimately overturned and are unconstitutional as they infringe on 1st Amendment rights.”