Assemblyman Gary S. Schaer Religious Accomodation Bills Advance

SCHAER RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION BILLS ADVANCE

Measures Would Apply to Health Care Facilities and Nursing Homes

(TRENTON) - The Assembly Health and Senior Services Committee today released two religious accommodation measures sponsored by Assemblyman Gary S. Schaer.

One measure (A-3515) would ensure that nursing home residents have the right to receive - upon request - foods that meet their respective religious dietary requirements.  A second measure (A-3517) would prevent hospitals and other health care facilities from requiring patients or their family members to sign admission papers at times when their religious beliefs prohibit them from signing papers.

The bills are part of a package of seven religious accommodation bills that Schaer has crafted to protect the sincerely held religious beliefs, observances, and practices of New Jersey residents at schools, in employment, and at public facilities such as hospitals.

"Religious freedom has always been one of America's core values and these bills reflect and build upon that time-honored tradition," said Schaer (D-Passaic). 

Schaer noted that some religious faiths bar partaking in any form of labor on the Sabbath; in some faiths, this has been interpreted to include writing.

He noted that the bill affecting nursing homes would amend the Nursing Home Bill of Rights first enacted in 1976 to protect the rights of nursing homes residents.  Provisions of this law include proper documentation of personal belongings, accommodation for religious observances, protection against various discriminations and protection from undue physical duress. 

The intent of the sponsor is to ensure that all nursing homes residents have their religious beliefs respected and upheld when residing in a nursing home.

"As a nation that draws strength from its rich diversity, these bills will help to protect New Jerseyan's expression of faith and belief," said Schaer.

The bills were released 11 to 0 and now go the Assembly Speaker who decides if and when to post them for Assembly floor votes.