“New Mexico’s public health orders do not violate religious freedom; they ensure that religious freedom is not misused to endanger people’s lives," said AU Associate Legal Director Alex J. Luchenitser.

'When health experts and public officials determine that large gatherings must be cancelled for the public good, we must follow their lead and apply these guidelines to secular and religious gatherings equally. The Constitution not only permits it, but demands it," said AU President and CEO Rachel Laser. "Such restrictions do not violate religious freedom; they ensure religious freedom is not misused in ways that risk people’s lives."