SALISBURY — A religion resolution that sparked a First Amendment debate earlier this week apparently died in its first committee hearing Thursday and will not be voted on.
Several media reports, citing WRAL-TV, said House Speaker Thom Tillis’ Office confirmed the resolution’s demise Thursday afternoon.
N.C. Rep. Harry Warren said earlier this week the legislation was not meant to encourage the formation of an official state religion.
Some critics said the resolution’s wording opened the door for a state religion.
Warren said his endorsement was simply to support the Rowan County commissioners’ sectarian prayer.
Commissioners are fighting a lawsuit against the American Civil Liberties Union on the right to pray at the start of government meetings.
N.C. Rep. Carl Ford, who also sponsored the bill, said Wednesday he also meant only to support commissioners.