TEXAS: State House Votes To Allow Religious Adoption Agencies To Turn Away Gays

[Frederick]

@amicusets:

@raphjd:

The separation of church and state ends when tax dollars are given to perform actions for the state.

There is no codified separation. There is the no state establishment of a church. Giving money to a private company for a service is no different than giving money to a church for the same service.

There is a world of difference.  A private company is liable in many ways for services.  A church is pretty much exempt from any liability.  Ever hear of priests molesting children?

[raphjd]

The difference is, a private business has to obey the laws of the land, while religious groups get to ignore them to suit their beliefs.

My dad used my inheritance to start a homeless shelter for men.   He got no tax money for it, but let's assume he did.

He could not discriminate in who he lets in and who he hires, but a religious homeless shelter can discriminate in who they let in and who they hire.   My dad couldn't force people to pray and attend church services, but a religious one can.

++++

Correct, there is no codified separation.  HOWEVER, it is clearly established in law through court rulings.

[amicusets]

@Frederick:

@amicusets:

There is a world of difference.   A private company is liable in many ways for services.  A church is pretty much exempt from any liability.  Ever hear of priests molesting children?

Ever hear of the more than 4 billion dollars in settlements and fees or the more than 10 dioceses who have gone bankrupt?

There is a case that was just heard by SCOTUS that will deal with the issue of this thread. They can decide it.