Which clause prohibits Congress from passing laws that prohibit the free exercise of religion?

• A. Free Exercise Clause
• B. Establishment Clause
• C. Lemon Test
• D. Due Process Clause

Answer: (A)

The Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from burdening or prohibiting religious practice, so Congress cannot pass laws that prevent people from freely exercising their religion. This direct protection rests on ensuring individuals can follow their faith without government interference. The Establishment Clause, by contrast, bars the government from establishing an official religion or endorsing one over others; the Lemon Test is a framework used to evaluate Establishment Clause concerns; and the Due Process Clause protects various fundamental rights through incorporation and other means, but it does not specifically target the right to freely exercise religion. In short, the clause that directly prevents Congress from enacting laws that restrict religious practice is the Free Exercise Clause.