Debate Heats Up On N.D. Measure 3

Arguments persist on the effect the passing of Measure 3 would have in North Dakota. The constitutional amendment would restore some religious freedoms that supporters say were lost in a 1990 Supreme Court decision.

 

 

Listen Now

 

 

Arguments persist on the effect the passing of Measure 3 would have in North Dakota. The constitutional amendment would restore some religious freedoms that supporters say were lost in a 1990 Supreme Court decision.

Christopher Dodson of the North Dakota Catholic Conference said a letter signed by 15 law professors disputes the claim that child and spousal abuse cases would be harder to prosecute.

"They confirm three things," said Dodson. "One, North Dakota needs better protection for religious freedom, this doesn't clog the courts and three, there is absolutely no way that it can be used to do what they call, these crazy ideas that is, things that harm children. In fact, the letter points out the quintessential purpose of government is protecting people, especially our most vulnerable."

Former State Child Protection Director Gladys Cairns said the amendment would make it difficult to provide services to families.

"We could intervene without first saying, 'OK, well wait a minute, is that religious belief?' in going through compelling and all of that, we didn't have to do that, we don't have to do that now," said Cairns. "I'm afraid, truly afraid, that that's what this is going to do. Social workers will have a harder time providing services to families."

The question will appear on next week's primary ballot.

 

Paul Jurgens

   

© 2012 KFGO-AM  |  1020 S. 25th Street Fargo, ND 58103