Number: RS20638
Title: THE RELIGIOUS LAND USE AND INSTITUTIONALIZED PERSONS ACT OF 2000
Authors: David M. Ackerman, American Law Division 
Abstract: On September 22, 2000, President Clinton signed into law the "Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA). This is the latest chapter in what has been a lengthy dispute over whether religious practices ought to be given special treatment by government and about Congress' constitutional authority to require state and local governments to do so. Issues raised include whether religious exercise ought to be afforded special treatment, its effect on historic preservation policies and practices, whether it unduly interferes with state and local prerogatives regarding land use, and its constitutionality. A legal challenge to the constitutionality of the measure seems likely.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated October 4, 2000