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Friday, 29 March 2024

Reopening plan unfair to churches, says U.S. government

Credit: KHSL
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Reopening plan unfair to churches, says U.S. government
Reopening plan unfair to churches, says U.S. government

The U.S. government is stepping in and questioning Governor Newsom's reopening plan, saying it may be unconstitutional when it comes to houses of worship.

New at four - the u.s. government is stepping in and questioning governor newsom's reopening planã saying it may be unconstitutional when it comes to houses of worship.

Action news now reporter kristian lopez is live at st john's episcopal church in chico... kristian - you spoke to the pastor there.

What's he saying?

The reverend here tells me they don't see it as discrimination because of their type of gathering.

Tuesday the head of the federal justice department sent a letter to governor gavin newsom saying his four stage reopening plan is not treating houses of worship fairly.

The letter says the governor is showing a, quote "unequal treatment of faith communities" by preventing them from gathering in person while allowing restaurants retailers to reopenãas long as they follow the safety guidelines.

The letter says religious gatherings should be given that same opportunity.

But reverend richard yale says he doesn't see it that way.

I don't see this as discrimination, it's the type of gathering.

It's different than going to costco or a market or being in an open area in the park.

We have a different set of habits that unfortunately have become vectors for disease and we have to think creatively about our responsibility.

Reverand yale says they are holding virtual meetings and online worships.

He says even when they're allowed to reopen his church won't until they are ready and have all the safety measures in place.

The letter also says not allowing churches to reopen is a violation against constitutional rights coming up at 5 i will be investigating these concerns.

Live in chico kristian lopez action news now..... reverend yale says a group of pastors is holding a virtual meeting with sheriff kory honea tonight..

To address some concerns and start discussing safe ways to reopen when its safe to do so.

As of right now churches are included in phase three of reopening plan.

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