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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 6, 2008
Contact:
Christina Gilgor, Kentucky Fairness Alliance Executive Director, (859) 420-6677
CIRCUIT COURT BLOCKS $11M APPROPRIATION TO THE UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS
Frankfort --- Division I of the Franklin Circuit Court released a decision today blocking the appropriation of $11 million to the University of the Cumberlands. The Kentucky legislature authorized the funds in 2006.
Judge Roger Crittenden found the appropriation to violate three sections of the Kentucky Constitution, including the prohibition against using tax dollars to fund denominational schools.
"Judge Crittenden's ruling simply re-affirms that Kentucky taxpayers aren't expected to fund private, religious institutions," said Christina Gilgor, Kentucky Fairness Alliance executive director. "It's a victory against state-subsidized discrimination. Kentucky's budget crisis is forcing public schools around the state to tighten their belts. In that climate, a windfall for the University of the Cumberlands is beyond inappropriate."
The defendants have 10 days to request reconsideration or 30 days to file an appeal.
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With over 10,000 members, the Kentucky Fairness Alliance seeks to advance equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people through leadership development, public education and by encouraging participation in the democratic process.
The Ampersand symbolizes the solidarity we are building through Friends & Family, and suggests the inclusiveness we are working toward. It reflects the idea that no one individual, legislator, organization, or city can carry all the water for equality. Our success lies in our solidarity.
