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Barr v. City of Sinton

295 S.W.3d 287 (2009)

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Barr v. City of Sinton

Texas Supreme Court
295 S.W.3d 287 (2009)

DC

Facts

In 1998, Pastor Barr (plaintiff) started Philemon Restoration Homes, a halfway-house ministry that offered housing and biblical instruction to parolees and probationers transitioning back into society after serving time for low-level offenses. Philemon’s guidelines emphasized that it was a biblical ministry, not a social-services agency, and participants were required to abide by biblical principles and participate in daily prayer and Bible studies. Shortly after Barr presented information to the city council about Philemon, the council passed an ordinance that prohibited correctional or rehabilitation facilities within 1,000 feet of residential areas, schools, and community facilities. The ordinance effectively eliminated any area in the small town that Philemon could operate, and a city manager later acknowledged that it was intended to target Barr and Philemon. Barr sued the city of Sinton (defendant), alleging that the ordinance violated the Texas Religious Freedom Restoration Act (TRFRA). The trial court ruled for the city, and Barr appealed.

Rule of Law

Issue

Holding and Reasoning (Hecht, J.)

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