|
|
|
 Appeal of RLUIPA Decision Prompts Becket Fund AppearanceOct 13, 2005 On October 13, 2005, The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty filed a Notice of Appearance before the United States Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit to defend a federal district court’s ruling in favor of Okemos Christian Center under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000 (RLUIPA).
For several years, Meridian Township, Michigan has blocked the Church from expanding its facility to carry out vital ministries of the Church. In August 2005, a federal district court held that the Township’s actions violated RLUIPA and enjoined the Township from taking any further actions to prevent the Church from expanding its facility in order to accommodate its growing congregation and operate a Christian school.
In September 2005, the Township appealed the district court decision, continuing to assert that it need not follow the requirements of RLUIPA. The Becket Fund will represent the Church before the federal appellate court against the Township’s latest effort to defy RLUIPA and stymie the work of the Church.
“Okemos Christian Center has a proven track record of being a blessing to the community,” said Director of Litigation Derek Gaubatz. “It’s especially unfortunate to see the Township continuing to waste taxpayer money on a quixotic crusade to block the ministry of this church.”
The Becket Fund is recognized as the national expert in litigating cases under RLUIPA and has been involved in over 40 RLUIPA cases around the country.
Resources & DocumentsRelevant Cases
|
|
|
