Approval came over the objections of those who contend Senate Bill 606 is unnecessary because the U.S. Constitution and the Louisiana Constitution already protect religious freedom.

“Efforts to limit religious expression are under way in America,” said Gene Mills, executive director of Louisiana Family Forum, a group that describes itself as a “voice for traditional families in Louisiana.”

Mills said the “Preservation of Religious Freedom Act” would “re-establish a wall of protection” against governmental attempts to infringe on an individual’s right of religious expression.

The legislation is part of a national movement pushed by those who call themselves family values-minded, religious conservatives.

Some 29 states have adopted similar laws.

With its chairman breaking the tie, the Senate Judiciary A Committee voted 4-3 for SB606. It now moves to the Senate floor for debate.

The measure, sponsored by state Sen. Danny Martiny, R-Metairie, also had support from Baptist and Catholic church representatives as well as the head of a group that promotes a pagan church.

Valli Henry, president of the Louisiana Alliance of Wiccans, said the legislation “bolstered our hope of spreading Wicca and paganism throughout Louisiana.”

Henry’s group recently came under attack as it planned a pagan festival in Livingston Parish.

Opposing the measure were  Capital City Alliance and Forum for Equality officials.

“This is both unnecessary and harmful,” said Marc Behar, of the Forum for Equality.

The Capital City Alliance says it represents gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender citizens living in the area. The Forum for Equality, of New Orleans,  is an advocate for gay and lesbian members.

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