GOP open to discussing concerns on TN Shariah bill

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Republican leaders say they're willing to talk with concerned Muslims about legislation that would make it a felony to follow some versions of the Islamic code known as Shariah.

The proposal represents the boldest legislative attempt yet to limit how Muslims worship.

Shariah is a set of core principles that most Muslims recognize as well as a series of rulings from religious scholars. It covers many areas of life, and different sects have different versions of the code they follow.

Muslim groups fear the measure would outlaw central tenets of Islam, such as praying five times a day toward Mecca or fasting for Ramadan.

State Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey acknowledged he hasn't seen the bill but plans to examine it and says he'll "sit down with anybody and talk to them."

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Online:

Read SB1028/HB1353 at: http://www.legislature.state.tn.us/