Senator Golden Lauds Court Ruling to Stop Eviction of Churches, Praises Protection of Equality for All

Albany – After a court ruled today to stay the eviction of religious groups from public schools for ten days, Senator Golden (R,C,I-Brooklyn) issued the following statement:

“Today’s ruling is in line with the protections of freedom of religion, expression, and equality that is outlined in the Constitution. Religious organizations cannot and should not be discriminated against, as they deserve the same rights as all groups do.

I look forward working with the Speaker on legislation acceptable to both houses as soon as the Legislature returns to Albany on February 29th. This temporary injunction will protect our houses of worship both this Sunday and next. Action by the State Assembly can permanently prevent the eviction of these organizations from utilizing public space.”

Senator Golden sponsored S6087-A, which afforded religious groups the right to use schools, when classes were not in session, as a place to worship. The bill passed the Senate on February 6th, 2012, and has been sent to the Assembly.