42-7-204. Construction. (1) This part must be construed in favor of a broad protection of free exercise of religious beliefs to the maximum extent permitted by the state and federal constitutions.

(2) The protection of free exercise of religious beliefs afforded by this part is in addition to the protections provided under federal law, state law, and the state and federal constitutions. Nothing in this part may be construed to:

(a) preempt or repeal any state or local law that is equally or more protective of free exercise of religious beliefs;

(b) narrow the meaning or application of any state or local law protecting free exercise of religious beliefs; or

(c) prevent the state government from providing, either directly or through an individual or entity not seeking protection under this part, any benefit or service authorized under state law.