A federal judge in Wichita has ruled against Governor Kelly’s executive order to block religious gatherings of more than ten people during the coronavirus outbreak.

U.S. District Judge John Broomes heard arguments by telephone on Friday and issued his ruling Saturday evening, indicating that the order may violate religious freedom and free speech rights.  The judge plans a hearing on Thursday in a lawsuit that was filed by churches in Dodge City and Junction City.   His temporary restraining order will be in effect through May 2nd, but the judge said the order only applies to the two plaintiffs in the lawsuit, and all other religious gatherings must continue to follow the executive order to limit the size of gatherings.

After the ruling, Governor Kelly issued a statement that said “We are in the middle of an unprecedented pandemic.  We all want to resume our normal lives as soon as possible, but for now the data and science tell us there’s still a serious threat from COVID-19 – and when we gather in large groups, the virus spreads.   My executive order is about saving Kansans’ lives and slowing the spread of the virus to keep our neighbors, our families and our loved ones safe,” Kelly said. “During public health emergencies, we must take proactive measures to save lives.”

The governor said six deaths and more than 80 cases of COVID-19 have resulted from religious gatherings.