Two Republican lawmakers have introduced a bill aimed at prohibiting the enforcement of Sharia law across the United States. The sponsors, Representative Randy Fine of Florida and Representative Keith Self of Texas, argue that this legislation, dubbed the “No Shari’a Act,” is crucial for upholding constitutional principles and preserving American culture.
This proposal has reignited a long-standing national conversation regarding the presence of foreign or religious legal systems in U.S. courts, particularly those pertaining to Islamic law. Proponents of the bill assert that it will protect the Constitution from being undermined, while opponents caution that it could foster Islamophobia and may face its own constitutional scrutiny.
The legislation seeks to prevent courts from enforcing any judgments or arbitration decisions based on Sharia law or any foreign legal system that conflicts with constitutional rights. The sponsors argue that the nation must maintain unity under a singular legal framework—the Constitution—rejecting any attempts to implement alternative systems.
In announcing the bill, Fine stated on social media, “Sharia Law is not compatible with Western Civilization,” emphasizing a hardline stance against the adoption of such laws in the United States. He also expressed that individuals favoring Sharia practices should consider living in nations where such laws prevail, rather than seeking to impose them in America.
Past controversies, including disputes over family law arbitration and the introduction of Muslim-majority communities in various states, have intensified Republican concerns regarding Sharia law. A notable incident in Texas involved opposition to the proposed EPIC City project, a Muslim community development near Dallas, which critics claimed could introduce elements of Sharia.
Self mentioned that he perceives Sharia law as already having a foothold in Texas and warned that allowing its implementation could lead to divisions within the nation, creating “civilizations with different laws.” Fine referred to a recent event in Dearborn, Michigan, where tensions arose over community decisions involving local governance, heightening his objections to the influence of such laws in America.
The bill has drawn criticism from civil rights groups who argue it unfairly targets Muslims and may violate First Amendment protections for religious freedom. One user on social media, identifying as a licensed media professional, challenged the portrayal of Islam as a violent religion, advocating for understanding and coexistence.
The Islamic Network Group has stated on its website that the Muslim demographic in the U.S. is too small for Sharia law to be integrated into American courts and asserts that there is little evidence supporting claims of Sharia being a genuine threat to U.S. legal systems. The organization emphasizes that American Muslims are committed to following both their faith and the laws of the land.
The proposed legislation will be considered by congressional committees before it can be voted on by the House. If it passes through the Republican-controlled House, its future in the Senate remains uncertain, and legal challenges are expected. As lawmakers reconvene and prepare for the upcoming 2026 election cycle, the debate surrounding the bill is likely to intensify.
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