In practice, this would look like people being able to claim “religious objections” at work to get out of things like diversity training, handling same-sex marriage licenses, or even working with someone who is LGBTQ+. This would create hostile work environments.

Faith-based organizations would be given broader exemptions for their beliefs, for instance, not being required to hire anyone who doesn’t adhere to their beliefs. Health care workers could refuse to treat LGBTQ+ people. Religious hospitals could refuse to provide abortion, contraception, or gender-affirming care. Government employees could refuse to issue same-sex marriage licenses without being penalized. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg – anyone could take advantage of this and claim religious exemption for getting out of almost any task at work.

More broadly, he’s saying that your religion trumps other people’s basic civil rights. This is called religious supremacy or religious exceptionalism. Berry is arguing for this, and supports the widespread discrimination against LGBTQ+ people that will result.

Full contextual analysis of Section 3.9: Department of Labor and Related Agencies here.