The French parliament is set to vote today on legislation that would ban the wearing of the face-covering Islamic veil in public.
Supporters of the bill say wearing the full veil is contrary to France's secular values and a potential security threat. Opponents say it is a violation of individual rights and may be against the constitution.
The law would fine offenders 150 euro ($185) or require citizenship classes, RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty reports.
After Tuesday's vote, the ban on face-covering veils will go in September to the Senate, where it is also likely to pass. Its biggest hurdle will likely come after that, when France's constitutional watchdog scrutinizes it. Some legal scholars say there is a chance it could be deemed unconstitutional.
The main body representing French Muslims says face-covering veils are not required by Islam and not suitable in France, but it worries that the law will stigmatize Muslims in general, The Associated Press informs.
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