Establishes the "PRAISE Act" prohibiting the closure of places of worship during an emergency
HB 1194, the "PRAISE Act," prohibits state and local governments from closing or restricting religious services during declared emergencies (like natural disasters or public health crises) under Chapter 44 or similar orders, ensuring places of worship are treated equally with other essential businesses. It specifically exempts religious services held on private property and allows them to resume once immediate dangers like floods or terrorist threats pass. Violations allow affected places of worship to sue for injunctive relief, damages, or other court-ordered remedies. The bill does not apply to emergency evacuation orders for imminent life-threatening situations.
Bill status
in committee
1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 5, 2025
Last action May 15, 2025
Floor votes
How they voted
No floor votes recorded yet.
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
1
May 15, 2025
Committee
Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
lower
Feb 5, 2025
Introduced
Introduced and Read First Time (H)
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Sean Pouche
RRepublican
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