
Associated Press - November 21, 2009 4:04 PM ET
GILBERT, Ariz. (AP) - An East Valley church has lost an appeal for an injunction in its claim that the city of Gilbert discriminates against religion.
It was the latest ruling in a years-long federal case against the town.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed an Arizona District Court decision denying Good News Presbyterian Church an injunction against a sign code the church says violates its First Amendment rights.
The decision means Gilbert can continue to enforce the code against the church, but the debate over whether it discriminates against religious groups will be left to a judge.
Alliance Defense Fund attorney David Cortman, who represents the church, says he's disappointed that the injunction was denied, but is pleased the case will go to court.
Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com
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