Connecticut diocese brings federal suit against state officials

May 29, 2009

Taking the offensive in an increasingly lively church-state conflict, the Diocese of Bridgeport, Connecticut, has filed a federal lawsuit against state ethics officials who said that the diocese must register as a lobbyist because it has organized rallies and generated publicity on legislative efforts. Church officials say this requirement is an "intrusive oversight by the state" into religious affairs.

The lawsuit was filed as diocesan leaders weigh their options in connection with a separate legal struggle, over a decision by the state's top court requiring public disclosure of Church files on sex-abuse cases.

 

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Further information:

• Bridgeport Diocese Files Lawsuit Against State (Harford Courant)
• Diocese Files Suit Against State Office (WFSB)
• Connecticut bishop protests court ruling, weighs possible appeal (CWN, May 28)