(a) Government shall not substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion even if the burden results from a rule of general applicability, except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(b) Government may substantially burden a person’s exercise of religion only if it demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is:

(1) In furtherance of a compelling governmental interest; and

(2) The least restrictive means of furthering such compelling governmental interest.

(c) A person whose religious exercise has been burdened in violation of this chapter may assert the violation as a claim or defense in a judicial proceeding and obtain appropriate relief against government.