Recent Rulings Show RFRA is No “Get Out of Jail Free” Card
Written by Don Byrd The federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) has for more than 20 years protected the religious free exercise rights of individuals against the unintended consequences of government action. The government may not “substantially...
Pensacola Officials Ask U.S. Supreme Court to Review Cross Decision
Written by Don Byrd The City of Pensacola, Florida is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene and allow a large memorial cross to remain on public land. Earlier this month, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a trial court ruling that the monument is an...
Federal Court Allows Lawsuit to Proceed Alleging Religious Discrimination by Michigan’s Child Placement Agencies
Written by Don Byrd A lawsuit challenging Michigan’s subsidy of religious adoption agencies that refuse to place children with same-sex couples can go forward after a federal judge rejected the defendant state officials’ motion to dismiss the case. While...
Louisiana’s Bossier School Board Halts Settlement Talks, will Litigate Church-State Claims
Written by Don Byrd Earlier this year, school officials in Louisiana’s Webster Parish announced a settlement to resolve litigation brought by plaintiffs alleging sweeping church-state violations in public schools. At the same time, Bossier Parish schools were...