Bill Text: VA SB690 | 2015 | Regular Session | Chaptered

Virginia Senate Bill 690 (Prior Session Legislation)

Bill Title: Chaplains of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force; sermons.

Spectrum: Bipartisan Bill

Status: (Passed) 2015-03-17 - Governor: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0283) [SB690 Detail]

Download: Virginia-2015-SB690-Chaptered.html

CHAPTER 283 An Act to prohibit censorship of sermons made by chaplains of the Virginia National Guard and Virginia Defense Force. [S 690] Approved March 17, 2015

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. §1. Notwithstanding any contrary provisions of law, the religious content of sermons, homilies, preaching, religious messages, or other speeches within religious services made by chaplains of the Virginia National Guard while in Title 32 or State Active Duty status or of the Virginia Defense Force shall not be censored or restricted by any state government official or agency, so long as (i) the religious content offered is not in any way a precursor of, introduction to, or part of any official ceremony, gathering, or formation that is not part of the religious service; (ii) the content does not urge disobedience of lawful orders; and (iii) members of the National Guard or Defense Force are not required to attend the service or event where such content is delivered.