What is the Lemon test established in Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971)?

The Lemon test, established in the Supreme Court case Lemon v. Kurtzman in 1971, serves as a critical standard for assessing the constitutionality of laws under the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. This clause prohibits the government from establishing an official religion or unduly favoring one religion over another.

The Lemon test consists of three key prongs that a law must satisfy to be considered constitutional. Firstly, the law must have a secular legislative purpose, meaning it should not be aimed at promoting or inhibiting religious beliefs. Secondly, its primary effect must neither advance nor inhibit religion. Finally, the law must avoid excessive government entanglement with religion, ensuring that there is a clear separation between church and state.

These criteria help ensure that government actions are neutral in relation to religion and do not overstep boundaries that would infringe upon the principles set forth in the Constitution regarding religious freedom and the separation of church and state. Thus, the Lemon test is fundamental for evaluating the constitutionality of various statutes that may intersect with religious practices or institutions.