Supreme Court to Decide on Wisconsin Tax Exemption for Catholic Charities Bureau

Background of the Dispute

The Supreme Court agreed to review a case involving Catholic Charities Bureau and its eligibility for Wisconsin's religious exemption from the unemployment tax system. Wisconsin law provides exemptions for organizations mainly operated for religious purposes.

The Challenge

• The state contests that Catholic Charities employs non-Catholics.
• State officials argue that the charity does not promote Catholicism to participants.
• Secular organizations can provide similar services to those offered by the charity.

Legal Arguments

Catholic Charities contends that denying the exemption violates the First Amendment's religious protections, claiming that the decision reflects bias against religious organizations.

In its petition, the charity states, “It doesn’t matter if Catholic Charities gives a cup of water in Jesus’ name, because non-religious charities offer cups of water too.”

Current Developments

The case will be heard in the upcoming term with oral arguments expected in the spring, and a ruling anticipated by summer.

Statements from the Diocese

Bishop James Powers emphasized the charity's mission, stating, “Catholic Charities Bureau is on the front lines bringing love, healing, and hope to the most vulnerable members of our community.” He expressed hope that the Supreme Court recognizes their vital work.