Robert Tyler, Partner at Tyler & Bursch, LLP and President of Advocates for Faith & Freedom has issued this statement regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s Order from Monday, banning houses of worship from holding indoor services:
“The State’s actions today impose another significant setback to the desperately needed social services that are provided by religious organizations. We have mental health crisis that is just as significant as COVID-19. Many churches and synagogues will now be forced to shutter their support groups, counseling and humanitarian relief. On July 1, 2020, the State issued a ban on signing and chanting indoors at worship services. That order was unprecedented, especially after the widespread support that public officials gave to protesters who ignored social distancing and face mask requirements. Now, the State says religious organizations in 80% of the state must meet outdoors, if at all, and gave discretion for local government to issue greater restrictions on outdoor meetings. Is a worship service any less protected under the First Amendment than a protest? No. Are the social services provided by a church any less important than those provided through a government office? No. The freedom of worship is of paramount importance and we will support churches who provide services as their faith sincerely dictates so long as they do not provide their services recklessly. We encourage religious leaders to stand on principle, serve their community, and worship God in the manner dictated by their faith.”
