New report: Florida leads the nation in protecting religious freedom in schools and public life
Tallahassee, Florida – The First Liberty Institute’s new “Religious Liberty in the States Index” indicates that Florida is now the best state in the country at defending religious freedom. On Monday, Governor Ron DeSantis made the announcement, which demonstrated that the state remains committed to protecting constitutional rights in schools, hospitals, and other public places.
The index looks at all 50 states and rates them based on their laws and policies that protect religious freedom. It is a thorough and peer-reviewed legal research. It takes into account things like exemptions for religious groups, the right of people to exercise their faith in public and private, and the legal protections that faith-based schools and institutions have.
“Florida holds several #1 rankings, leading the nation in education, economy, and tourism—and now, Florida is #1 in religious liberty,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “We’re grateful for this recognition from the First Liberty Institute, which has just named Florida the #1 state in the nation for protecting religious liberty. Religious liberty is critical to the foundation and function of America, and I am proud that Florida excels in protecting this right.”
A series of laws that Governor DeSantis signed into law are mostly to blame for the state’s place at the top. The Parents’ Bill of Rights, which Florida passed in 2021, clearly gives parents control over their children’s moral and religious upbringing. That year, the state also added a period of silence in public schools every day so that students might pray or personal reflection.
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DeSantis enacted a law in 2022 that made houses of worship vital services. This meant that emergency orders couldn’t close them down during crises. Florida’s position during the COVID-19 pandemic made it even stronger. In 2023, legislation was passed to preserve both medical freedom and doctors’ rights to practice in line with their religious or moral beliefs.
In recent years, more policies have been put in place, such as allowing religious private schools to be part of the school choice program, guaranteeing student-athletes’ ability to pray before games, and starting a statewide chaplain program in public schools.
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The DeSantis administration has also taken a strong stand against religious discrimination on college campuses. The state acted quickly in 2024 to stop antisemitic camps and safeguard Jewish students from targeted abuse. This was very different from what happened in other parts of the country, when nothing was done.
Florida has a vast array of awards, and being number one in religious freedom is one of them. The state is the best in the country for higher education, school choice, economic growth, and attracting talent. The Sunshine State continues to be recognized as a leader in governance, personal freedoms, and opportunity, thanks to high ratings from credit agencies and business rankings.
You may see the whole Religious Liberty in the States Index at religiouslibertyinthestates.com.
