5-4 Burwell v. Hobby Lobby
Jun 2, 2020
Dive into the landmark Supreme Court case Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, where corporations can claim religious exemptions. The ruling raises questions about women's reproductive rights and the implications for healthcare access. Explore the tension between corporate religious beliefs and employee rights, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the Museum of the Bible’s artifact collection. Examine the strategic motivations behind Supreme Court opinion assignments and the balance of power between wealthy employers and their employees.
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Corporations Can Claim Religious Rights
- The Court treated for-profit corporations like Hobby Lobby as capable of holding religious beliefs under RFRA.
- That lets owners have corporate liability protection while claiming the corporation shares their religion.
RFRA Reinstated Strict Scrutiny
- RFRA forces laws that substantially burden religion to meet strict scrutiny: compelling interest and least restrictive means.
- It was passed in 1993 as a reaction to Supreme Court decisions narrowing free exercise protections.
Hobby Lobby's Religious Branding And Scandal
- The Green family runs Hobby Lobby and promotes operating the company consistent with biblical principles.
- The hosts note the family's wealth, evangelism, and a history including questionable antiquities purchases.