Description: Christ’s Church of Mt. Spokane filed suit in federal court against Gov. Jay Inslee to challenge a provision of his executive order that threatens churches with criminal and civil penalties for meeting even though it designates cannabis retailers, breweries, and union operations as “essential workers.”
Facing ADF lawsuit, Washington governor updates COVID-19 order, loosens restrictions on churches
Wednesday, Dec 23, 2020
Attorney sound bite: Ryan Tucker
“Gov. Inslee has finally acknowledged that even during this difficult time, the First Amendment cannot be put away and forgotten. As the Supreme Court recently affirmed, the Constitution doesn’t allow government officials to treat religious Americans like second-class citizens. There is no constitutional right to cannabis or alcohol, but there is one that protects attending worship services. We’re grateful the governor has acknowledged our clients’ First Amendment freedoms. Yesterday’s announcement from the governor is not only a win for Christ’s Church of Mt. Spokane and Westgate Chapel, it’s good news for all Washingtonians.”
In May, ADF attorneys filed Christ’s Church of Mt. Spokane v. Inslee in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington, after the governor labeled spiritual gatherings as “COVID-19 ‘superspreader’ events,” and enacted a ban that uniquely restricts church gatherings.”