Appeal Decision is Victory for Church-State Separation Advocates

Amherst, New York (December 15, 2009)—The Council for Secular Humanism today won an appeal in its landmark case challenging the use of Florida taxpayer dollars to fund faith-based programs. The Council and co-plaintiffs Richard and Elaine Hull initially filed suit in Leon County Circuit Court challenging the legality of statutes granting funds to two faith-based organizations, Prisoners of Christ, Inc. and Lamb of God Ministries, Inc.

Today's decision by the Florida First District Court of Appeal reversed a lower court ruling that had dismissed the Council's lawsuit entirely. The case, titled Council for Secular Humanism v. McNeil, may now proceed to discovery and trial before the lower court.

FULL STORY

Press Coverage throughout the State of Florida:
"Secular humanists claim court victory" — 12/16/09 South Florida Business Journal
"Florida appeals court has problems with faith-based prison programs" — 12/16/09 Orlando Sentinel
"Appellate opinion keeps Florida faith-based programs alive" — 12/16/09 Florida Times-Union
"Faith-based prison rehab case reversed" — 12/16/09 Tampa Tribune
"Challenge to Fla. prison religious aid reinstated" — 12/15/09 Associated Press