January 1, Judge Blocks Ban on Faith-Based College Programs

Wyatt’s Take

• Federal judge says Minnesota can’t exclude religious colleges from student program.
• Law was ruled unconstitutional for violating free exercise of religion.
• Families celebrate win for faith and educational freedom.

A federal court has ruled that Minnesota’s attempt to block religious colleges from a popular program for high schoolers is unconstitutional.

State lawmakers changed the rules last year, shutting out colleges that require students to sign a faith statement, or have certain admissions practices, from the Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program. The program has helped students take tuition-free college courses for decades.

Two Christian families and two colleges challenged the law, saying their beliefs were being targeted. Judge Nancy Brasel agreed, writing,

“In sum, the Faith Statement Ban is unconstitutional on its face under the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment… because it burdens religious exercise, is not neutral and generally applicable, and is not narrowly tailored to achieve MDE’s compelling interest.”

Judge Brasel found the law could not stand, since it singled out religious institutions while aiming to keep things fair.

Parents who sued the state felt they were being told their faith didn’t count. “We raise our children to put their faith at the center of their lives. Minnesota tried to take that right away from us by denying kids like ours the opportunity to attend schools that reflect their faith,” said Mark and Melinda Loe. “We are grateful for this ruling, which protects students across the state and the schools they want to attend.”

The legal group that led the charge called the decision a win for families and a warning for lawmakers. “Minnesota tried to cut off educational opportunities to thousands of high schoolers simply for their faith. That’s not just unlawful — it’s shameful. This ruling is a win for families who won’t be strong-armed into abandoning their beliefs, and a sharp warning to politicians who target them,” said Diana Thomson, a Becket attorney.

The Minnesota Department of Education has worked to keep religious colleges out of the program since 2019, but only got its way when Democrats took over the legislature in 2023. Because of the lawsuit, enforcement of the law had already been put on hold as the case played out. At a hearing, the state argued it was just trying to protect kids who don’t share the same beliefs as the religious schools.

Families across the heartland can breathe a little easier tonight, knowing their beliefs and freedom to choose are still protected in the eyes of the law.

Wyatt Matters

This ruling is about standing up for our freedom to live out our faith and to give our kids the chance to learn in schools that share our values. It’s a reminder that protecting religious liberty protects all of us, no matter where we come from or what we believe.

Full story here