Calling for the global repeal of blasphemy, heresy, and apostasy laws.

United States115th CongressHRES-349House of Representatives
Updated: Jun 27, 2017

Summary

Calls on the President and the Department of State to: (1) make the repeal of blasphemy, heresy, or apostasy laws a priority in the bilateral relationships of the United States with all countries that have such laws; and (2) designate countries that enforce such laws as "countries of particular concern for religious freedom" under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998. Urges the governments of countries that: (1) enforce such laws to amend or repeal such laws; and (2) have prosecuted, imprisoned, and persecuted people on charges of blasphemy, heresy, or apostasy to release such people unconditionally and ensure their safety. Encourages the President and the State Department to oppose: (1) any efforts by international or multilateral fora to create an international anti-blasphemy norm, and (2) any attempts to expand the international norm on incitement to include blasphemy or defamation of religions. Supports United Nations efforts to combat intolerance, discrimination, or violence against persons based on religion or belief without restricting expression.

Bill texts

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Timeline

Latest companion bill action

SRES-647: A resolution calling for the global repeal of blasphemy, heresy, and apostasy laws.

Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (text of measure as introduced: CR S6307)

  1. Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

    House of Representatives

  2. Introduced in House

  3. Referred to the Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations.

    House of Representatives

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