A federal judge temporarily blocked Gov. Roy Cooper’s restrictions on religious services put in place in response to the coronavirus pandemic, in an order released Saturday.It isn't clear what measures, such as severe limits on attendance or a prohibition on singing, will remain or be undertaken voluntarily.Judge James C. Dever III set a hearing for May 29.
On Thursday two Baptist churches, a minister and a Christian revival group sued the governor in federal court, saying his executive order violates their First Amendment freedom of religion, The News & Observer reported.
Cooper’s spokesperson, Ford Porter, responded to the order with a statement that the governor’s office disagrees but will not appeal. The statement urged houses of worship and their leaders to voluntarily follow public health guidance.
More at The Federalist.
