Colorado § 17-42-101 - Freedom of worship.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-42-101 — Freedom of worship., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-42-101. Freedom of worship.
(1) All persons who are confined to a correctional facility as defined in section 17-1-102 shall have the right to worship according to the dictates of their consciences, and such persons shall be afforded a reasonable opportunity to freely exercise their religious beliefs without fear of retaliation or discrimination for the free exercise thereof. The practice of religion by any particular sect may not be curtailed or prohibited unless such practices threaten the reasonable security interests of the correctional facility.
(2) Upon the request of any inmate, and to the extent practicable and consistent with reasonable security considerations, religious facilities shall be made available in a nondiscriminatory manner. Services shall be held and advice and ministration given within the buildings or grounds of the correctional facility where the inmate is confined. Attendance at any services so provided shall be voluntary.
(3) The department shall permit access to objects of a religious nature where possession of such objects would not unduly burden the reasonable security interests of the correctional facility. Prison officials shall accord appropriate respect for sacred objects. When the reasonable security interests of the correctional facility necessitate the inspection of any sacred object, such inspection shall be done visually.
(4) In order to provide for and attend to the spiritual needs of inmates, the department shall permit inmates to consult with and receive spiritual advice and ministration from a spiritual leader.
(5) This section shall not require the department of corrections to construct additional facilities, remodel or reconfigure existing structures, or hire additional employees to meet the directives of this section.
Source: L. 92: Entire article added, p. 250, § 1, effective May 26.
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 17-42-101
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-42-101 cover?
Section 17-42-101 ("Freedom of worship.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 17-42-101?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 17-42-101" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 17-42-101 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.