The Tasmanian Government has expressed concern to the federal government that its religious discrimination bill would prevent the state's anti-discrimination tribunal from dealing with certain complaints.
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The federal bill, to be introduced before the end of the year, would preclude a complaint of insulting, intimidating, humiliating, ridiculing or offensive behaviour being tested under the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Act if the actions were carried out on the basis of religious belief.
Clark independent MHA Kristie Johnston in Question Time on Tuesday said an override of state legislation would have a particular impact on people with disability and LGBTIQ people.
"It is no exaggeration to say Tasmania is being targeted by Canberra because it does not like our inclusive laws," she said.
Premier Peter Gutwein said it was important there was the right balance between protection from discrimination and the right of people to reasonably express their beliefs.
He said Attorney-General Elise Archer had been in touch with the federal counterpart about the bill.
"The Attorney-General has made it clear that it was the Tasmanian Government's view that the bill as drafted would diminish the opportunity of the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Tribunal to deal with certain complaints," Mr Gutwein said.
"We have advocated for no weakening of Tasmania's anti-discrimination laws."
"We understand that these types of reforms can be contentious in conflicts which is why we have taken the time to thoroughly consider the draft bill."
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Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
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