U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Louisiana, has voted against allowing the Respect for Marriage Act to move forward, citing his amendment to protect religious freedoms for faith-based organizations.

“We need to end the culture wars on both sides. If you wish to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act, then also end the assault of endless lawsuits on those with traditional views be they small business owners or catholic adoption agencies,” Cassidy said. “My amendment makes necessary improvements to defend religious liberties in the public square.”

Cassidy’s amendment would strengthen protections for religious freedoms and faith-based organizations by:

• Preserving the tax-exempt status of religious non-profits
• Defending small business owners from being required to provide services that go against their firmly held religious beliefs
• Extending religious protections for public accommodations to online platforms
• Ensuring that child welfare agencies can continue to provide vital services without fear of adverse government action