A 2009 case in New Jersey has been referenced in states where legislators introduced a ban on the application of foreign law. In this case, a judge didn’t grant a protective order to a woman abused by her Muslim husband after it was found he was following his beliefs. That decision was later reversed and scrutinized by legal scholars.

Sen. Keith Regier, R-Kalispell, said he was carrying the bill to protect the fundamental liberties of all Americans. He said he’d received more than 150 letters and emails from proponents of the bill and about five from opponents since introducing the legislation.

Many of the proponents were residents in Regier’s district and the surrounding area. Several had a military or law enforcement background. One proponent called anyone who objected to the bill un-American.

Some proponents took issue with the idea of practicing Islam and people who don’t assimilate to a specific aspect of American culture. Sandy Bradford, a Helena resident, said Islam is not peaceful and is an enemy to all. Sandy Montgomery, from the Flathead, said the bill was long overdue.