Albert Olszewski on Foreign Policy | |
"It cannot be seriously denied that the bill is drawn from 'Sharia law bans' that have been tried in other states. The intent of these bills is to target a particular religion and group of people for disfavored treatment," Bullock said, adding that the proposal could add to the "nationwide surge in hate crimes."
"I don't see how affirming our Constitution does that. I disagree with him," said Sen. Keith Regier (R-Kalispell). He and other backers argued that the measure aimed merely to declare support for U.S. and Montana law. They rejected contentions that the bill was anti-Islamic or xenophobic.
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 3/21, 56-43-1; passed Senate 2/3, 27-21-1; Sen. Olszewski voted YES; vetoed by Governor Bullock, 4/6/2017