Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, arguing that its rules unconstitutionally prevent religious organizations from accessing public funds for housing and homeless services. Paxton claims the regulations force religious groups to compromise their beliefs to participate in state-funded programs, according to the Office of the Texas Attorney General.
Framing the case as a defense of religious freedom, Paxton stated, "State agencies have no authority to force Christians and other religious organizations to censor their beliefs just to serve their communities." The lawsuit continues his pattern of challenging state rules he believes discriminate against religious organizations, including previous cases involving higher education work-study programs, as reported by the Office of the Texas Attorney General.
Paxton's office filed a lawsuit challenging Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs rules that they say prevent churches and religious organizations from using federal and state resources. "Constitutionally protected religious liberty must be upheld in Texas and across the country," Paxton said. The case could affect how religious groups access government programs in Texas and other states, as stated by the Office of the Texas Attorney General.
