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Judge: No Right to Religiously Motivated Actions

CBN

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A Washington state florist who refused to provide flowers for a gay wedding has been found guilty of breaking the law.

Benton County Superior Court Judge Alex Ekstrom ruled Wednesday that Barronelle Stutzman, the owner of Arlene's Flowers, violated the state's consumer protection and anti-discrimination law.

Stutzman argues her actions were protected by her right to religious freedom. But the judge ruled that while religious beliefs are protected by the First Amendment, actions based on those beliefs aren't necessarily.

He also ruled Stutzman must provide full wedding support for same-sex ceremonies.

Meanwhile, a recent Associated Press poll found 57 percent of Americans said wedding-related businesses, like florists, should be allowed to refuse service if they have an objection rooted in their religion.

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