In Wisconsin, charities approved by the state's Department of Administration are eligible to receive a share of the contributions made by state employees to the Wisconsin State Employees Charitable Campaign. In order to be approved, a charity must sign a non-discrimination statement that applies to membership in the organization, employment, volunteer opportunities and receipt of services. The required statement includes non-discrimination on the basis of creed or sexual orientation. Yesterday, the Alliance Defense Fund and Christian Legal Society filed suit (ADF press release, AP story) on behalf of the Association of Faith-Based Organizations challenging the constitutionality of the policy insofar as it requires religious organizations to abandon their policy of requiring members, board members, volunteers and employees to share the organization's religious views. The lawsuit alleges (full text of complaint) that these requirements deprive plaintiff groups of their First Amendment rights of speech, association and free exercise of religion, and denies the groups equal protection of the laws. The suit seeks declaratory and injunctive relief and an award of attorneys' fees.
UPDATE: On Thursday, Gov. Jim Doyle called for a review of standards used to determine which charities can participate in WSECC. (Associated Press).
