WENDY GISH v. GAVIN NEWSOM
"The religious liberties guaranteed by our Constitution are not negotiable. We must stand together against Governor Newsom’s abuse of power and the suppression of religious freedom in California."
On April 13, 2020, Dhillon Law Group, in conjunction with the Center for American Liberty, filed a First Amendment lawsuit in Federal Court challenging the Governor's criminalization of the free exercise of religion. The following day, a preliminary injunction seeking immediate relief for our clients was also filed. Dhillon Law Group represents two pastors in Riverside County, one pastor in San Bernardino County, and one church member in San Bernardino County.
“The restrictions placed upon our clients are completely discriminatory and arbitrary,” said Harmeet K. Dhillon, Chief Executive Officer for the Center for American Liberty. “The Constitution doesn’t allow for state officials to treat churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples as second-class ‘non-essential’ organizations.”
“Marijuana dispensaries, liquor stores, fast food restaurants, laundromats, and numerous other businesses are allowed to operate provided social distancing standards are satisfied. The same should be true of houses of worship,” said Dhillon. “Without immediate judicial intervention, our clients will suffer irreparable harm,” concluded Dhillon.
Defendants opposition briefs are due by Friday, May 1, 2010 and Plaintiffs reply is due by Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Order Denying Motion for Reconsideration (Doc 88)
Appeal Opening Brief (Doc 24)
Appeal Reply Brief (Doc 44)
SCOTUS Emergency Application for a Writ of Injunction Relief (SCOTUS Brief final)
SCOTUS Opposition to Emergency Application for a Write of Injunction (SCOTUS –opp emergency)
SCOTUS Order granting Injunctive Relief (Doc 140)