Establishes the "Missouri Religious Freedom Protection Act"

HB 1778, the "Missouri Religious Freedom Protection Act," prohibits Missouri public officials from restricting religious services or meetings at places of worship (defined as buildings or grounds used for religious activities). It applies to state and local government employees, requiring them to allow such gatherings unless the religious group is knowingly planning violence or harm. The bill explicitly states that places of worship must still comply with standard building and fire safety codes. This law directly affects religious groups seeking to hold in-person services and government officials responsible for enforcing public health or safety regulations.