The Supreme Court heard arguments regarding the use of state funds for a Catholic charter school in Oklahoma, a case with significant implications for religious education funding nationwide. The court's conservative justices pressed an opposing attorney on how their stance aligns with previous rulings that have blurred the lines between church and state.
Chief Justice John Roberts played a crucial role, potentially holding the deciding vote due to Justice Amy Coney Barrett's recusal. Justice Brett Kavanaugh suggested opposition to the school constitutes discrimination against religion. Three conservative justices appeared supportive, while three liberal justices opposed the school's funding.
The debate centered on whether the state's involvement in regulating charter schools impacts the applicability of previous rulings, including a 2022 case involving Maine's tuition assistance program. Justice Roberts questioned whether the level of state involvement in Oklahoma differed significantly from previous cases. The court also considered a 2021 case concerning a Catholic foster care agency's refusal to work with same-sex couples.
A ruling in favor of the school could redefine charter schools as private entities, potentially prompting other religious schools to seek funding. It might also lead states to restrict or eliminate charter schools. The solicitor general argued in support of the school, highlighting a change in position from the Biden administration compared to a previous case involving a North Carolina charter school's dress code.
Oklahoma's Attorney General sued to block the school's creation, citing the potential for state funds to benefit the Catholic church. The Oklahoma Supreme Court sided with the Attorney General, highlighting concerns about the separation of church and state.