SHAWANO, WI- Representative Peter Schmidt, is collaborating on a joint resolution aimed at safeguarding church services in the face of potential future pandemics or state emergencies.
Assembly Joint Resolution 60 (AGR 60) seeks to limit the authority of health departments to close religious worship centers, a response to the restrictions imposed during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, where gatherings were limited to 10 people or fewer. The resolution has successfully passed the Assembly and is poised for consideration in the Senate.
Unlike a conventional bill, AJR 60 won’t be sent to Gov. Tony Evers for approval. However, if it clears both chambers in this session, it must pass again during the 2025-26 legislative session. If successful, it will then go to voters to decide whether to amend the state constitution.
AJR 60, Schmidt emphasized, specifically focuses on protecting worship services and not other church-related activities like food pantries or special events, which would remain subject to health department emergency orders.
Expressing concern about the government’s role in suppressing religious freedom, Schmidt stressed the importance of protecting the freedom of religion guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and reinforcing Wisconsin’s constitutional religious freedoms.
While acknowledging AJR 60 doesn’t prevent places of worship from closing if necessary, Schmidt asserted his trust in churches over government decisions.
Schmidt revealed that nine other states have enacted similar legislation in the last three years, with bipartisan support in some cases. However, he expressed skepticism about Wisconsin Democrats supporting AJR 60, anticipating their preference for public health departments retaining the authority to shut down religious services.
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