The Supreme Court will hear a case involving Catholic preschools in Colorado that refuse to enroll children from gay and transgender families. The schools want to join a state-funded preschool program.
Colorado’s universal preschool program provides tuition assistance to families across the state. Religious institutions can participate but must follow nondiscrimination rules.
The Catholic preschools argue that the requirements violate their religious freedom. They claim the state is forcing them to choose between their faith and public funding.
Lower courts have split on the issue, creating uncertainty for similar programs nationwide. The case could set a precedent for how religious organizations interact with public benefit programs.
Colorado officials maintain that organizations receiving public funds must serve all eligible families. The state says the rules protect equal access to early education.
The case arrives as several states expand preschool programs through a mix of public and private providers. Religious institutions are often key partners in these efforts.
A ruling is expected by June. The outcome could affect thousands of families and religious schools across the country.
