Michigan Bill Would Increase Penalties For Disturbing Religious Services

The Livingston County (MI) Daily Press and Argus reports on passage by the Michigan state Senate last week of Senate Bill 19 which would increase the penalties for interrupting or disturbing services at any building that is clearly identified as one used for religious purposes. It also bans obstructing anyone entering or leaving a building used for religious purposes.  The bill was sent on to the state House of Representatives for consideration. The Michigan ACLU is concerned that the bill does not define a religious disruption and fears it could be applied, for example, to someone wearing an offensive button in church. The bill calls for imprisonment of up to 93 days, a $1000 fine and 100 hours of community service work for a first offense.