Why It Matters:

• In April 2025, Gov. Stitt is the first to issue an executive order ordering all state agencies to identify existing laws and regulations that discriminate against religious institutions or individuals.

• This comes in the wake of several supreme court rulings (Trinity Lutheran v. Comer, Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, and Carson v. Makin) making it clear that this type of discrimination violates the First Amendment.

• This executive order mandates a full review and revision of any state law or regulation that excludes religious entities, including outdated provisions in public education, arts funding, and historical preservation programs.

• This move could be the first of many similar executive orders as other states and governors acknowledge that discrimination based on religion is unjust and unlawful.