Suppose a man is a member of a religious community that uses small doses of the drug LSD during worship rituals. The man is found in possession of the illegal drug and is arrested. The man states that the drugs are required for religious practices. Which case provides precedent that would allow the state to convict the man of unlawful possession of a controlled substance?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Employment Division v. Smith established that the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment does not excuse individuals from complying with neutral, generally applicable laws, including drug laws. Therefore, even if the man's use of LSD is for religious purposes, he can still be convicted of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

Suppose a Man Is a Member of a Religious Community