After being sued by Abundant Life Baptist Church for allegedly denying their constitutional rights, Jackson County has settled the litigation.
The county and its health department, managed by University Health, will pay $146,750 to the church whose services take place in Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit.
“They decided to pay because they made a mistake and knew they could not win,” said attorney Sid Chase.
Abundant Life Baptist Church alleged in their March 2020 lawsuit that religion was not treated equally when pandemic restrictions were implemented.
“If the plaintiffs can prove you treated a religious institution differently than a non-religious institution, you’re going to lose,” Chase told the St. Louis Record. “All of that is solid in the law.”
While churches were subjected to restrictions that limited gatherings to 10 people last year, restaurants and bars were allowed to reopen without limitation and with only social distancing in place.
“I think it was ignorance as to how they should apply the law,” Chase said. “The law is clear. They weren't thinking. I don't ascribe venality when stupidity sometimes rules.”
The case is among three other lawsuits in California that have resulted in attorney fees being awarded to churches.
“What was at stake here if Jackson County didn't settle is more money,” Chase added. “In a settlement, everybody takes a little bath. The only reason they settled is because someone is afraid there will be a $50 million jury verdict. After a settlement, there is no appeal. Once you settle, it's a deal.”
As previously reported, in September, the state of California and San Joaquin County agreed to pay Cross Culture Christian Center $500,000 to end litigation concerning alleged unequal COVID-19 restrictions imposed upon houses of worship.
In August, the county of Los Angeles and the state both agreed to settle litigation with a combined payment of $800,000 to Grace Community Church in Sun Valley split equally between the two governmental entities.
The state of California also agreed to pay $1.35 million in July to Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry to settle litigation.