RULE 610. RELIGIOUS BELIEFS OR OPINIONS
Evidence of the beliefs or opinions of a witness on matters of religion is not admissible for the purpose of showing that by reason of their nature the witness' credibility is impaired or enhanced.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This rule is adopted from Rule 610 of the Federal Rules of Evidence. It should be noted that the rule prohibits admission of evidence of religious beliefs only if offered to affect credibility. Such evidence may be offered for other purposes, such as showing bias.
Rule 610 was amended, effective March 1, 1990. The amendment is technical in nature and no substantive change is intended.
SOURCES: Minutes of Joint Procedure Committee: March 24-25, 1988, page 12; December 3, 1987, page 15; June 3, 1976, page 2; October 1, 1975, page 6. Rule 610, Federal Rules of Evidence; Rule 610, SBAND proposal.