The Supreme Court is set to hear a major religious liberty case involving a Colorado universal preschool program, with implications that could extend beyond the state. The case, St. Mary Catholic Parish v. Roy, centers on Colorado's decision to bar Catholic preschools from participating in the program because they would not accept all families, including those who do not share Catholic beliefs.
The coalition of Catholic schools argues that this requirement would force them to sacrifice their beliefs, violating their First Amendment rights. Colorado has defended its decision, but the state has a history of losing First Amendment cases at the Supreme Court, with three losses in the past decade.
According to Amanda Dixon, counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, Colorado's track record on First Amendment issues is poor, and the state continues to test the boundaries of the Constitution. The state's previous losses include cases related to antidiscrimination laws and restrictions on therapists' speech.
The case could have significant implications for religious rights beyond the universal preschool program, with potential effects on other religious institutions. The Supreme Court's ruling could set a landmark precedent on the balance between state programs and religious freedom.
The court will hear arguments in the case on the same day as the midterm elections, and a decision is expected later this term.