In the case Resurrection School v. Hertel et al., Case No. 20-2256 (6th Cir. 2021), the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, whose decisions are binding in Ohio, held that face mask requirements do not violate a Michigan individual’s religious freedom.
Here, a Michigan Catholic school and two parents filed a lawsuit claiming that the face mask requirements imposed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services violated their free exercise of religion. The school further argued that the mandates deprived students of fully partaking in a Catholic education because wearing such masks affected the focus of its students. The parents added that their students could not abide by such mandates due to respiratory issues, however the child’s pediatrician determined that the child’s condition was not severe enough to require medical exemption.
The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals held that the face mask requirements were neutral and of general applicability. As such, the Court found that the mandates did not violate the Free Exercise Clause.
To read this case, click here.
Authors: Matthew John Markling and the McGown & Markling Team.
Note: This blog entry does not constitute – nor does it contain – legal advice. Legal jurisprudence is like the always-changing Midwestern weather. As a result, this single blog entry cannot substitute for consultation with a McGown & Markling attorney. If legal advice is needed with respect to a specific factual situation, please feel free to contact a McGown & Markling attorney.