Defeat Sharia Law in America Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Feb 12, 2026
Bottom line
This bill explicitly defines the implementation of Sharia law by public accommodations as religious discrimination under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, potentially broadening the scope of federal anti-discrimination enforcement.
What it actually does
This bill amends Section 201(a) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to explicitly state that any establishment covered by the Act that provides goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations by implementing Sharia law shall be considered to be discriminating or segregating on the ground of religion. This aims to broaden the scope of federal anti-discrimination enforcement by specifically addressing the application of Sharia law in public accommodations.
Proponents argue
Proponents would argue this bill clarifies and strengthens existing civil rights protections by explicitly prohibiting discrimination under the guise of religious legal systems like Sharia law, ensuring all individuals receive equal treatment in public accommodations regardless of religious practices that might dictate otherwise. They might assert it protects individual liberties and upholds the principle of secular law in public spaces.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue this bill is unnecessary, potentially discriminatory itself by singling out a specific religious legal system, or could lead to misinterpretations and unintended consequences regarding religious freedom. They might contend that existing anti-discrimination laws are sufficient and that this bill could be seen as an attack on religious minorities.
The bill is extremely short and can be read in less than a minute, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding.
Section 2
Prohibiting Discrimination by Public Accommodations Implementing Sharia Law
This section amends the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to explicitly state that if a public accommodation provides goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations while implementing Sharia law, it will be considered to be discriminating or segregating on the ground of religion. This means that any business or establishment covered by the Civil Rights Act that applies principles of Sharia law in its operations would be in violation of federal anti-discrimination law, subjecting them to potential legal action.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that all individuals are treated equally under federal law in public accommodations, preventing any religious legal system from being used to justify discriminatory practices. They contend it upholds the separation of church and state principles in commercial settings and clarifies existing protections.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision is overly broad, potentially infringing on religious freedom rights of business owners, or that it unfairly targets a specific religion. They may also contend that existing anti-discrimination laws already cover such scenarios, rendering this amendment redundant or provocative.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tension between ensuring broad anti-discrimination protections in public accommodations and concerns about religious freedom for business owners, particularly those whose faith might inform their business practices. It also raises questions about the federal government's role in defining and regulating religious legal systems.