A Texas justice of the peace has been awarded more than $640,000 after facing disciplinary action for refusing to officiate same-sex weddings due to her religious beliefs. This decision is seen as a substantial victory for those valuing religious liberty.
Hiram Sasser, executive general counsel for First Liberty Institute, stated that this ruling underscores the importance of allowing individuals to refrain from participating in activities that conflict with their religious convictions.
Judge Dianne Hensley, represented by First Liberty Institute and attorney Jonathan F. Mitchell, received $10,000 in damages following the court’s judgment. The Travis County District Court also compelled the State Commission on Judicial Conduct to pay around $630,000 in legal fees incurred by Hensley.
Hensley chose not to perform same-sex weddings, citing her Christian faith, and implemented a referral system to direct couples to other officiants without extra cost or delay. Despite this effort, she encountered opposition in 2018 from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
Sasser explained that Hensley was initially warned that continued refusal could escalate punitive measures against her. The case highlights advances made in Texas, including amendments by the Texas Supreme Court allowing religious accommodation and legislative changes to reform the commission’s membership.
Hensley expressed her relief, stating that her goal was to serve the community while upholding her religious commitments. The case took eight years to resolve, ultimately reinforcing religious liberty principles.
The State Commission on Judicial Conduct has chosen not to comment on the decision.