Under Attack Again: Wisconsin Rules 105-Year-Old Catholic Charity Is Not ‘Primarily’ Religious

For more than a century, the Catholic Charities Bureau of Superior, Wisconsin has assisted people of all faiths, especially those who are low-income, developmentally disabled, elderly, or children. However, the Bureau is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the state’s labor division over whether it is eligible for a religious exemption from contributing to the state’s unemployment insurance system. The state’s Labor and Industry Review Commission has determined that the Bureau is essentially a secular organization because it offers its services free of proselytizing, regardless of clients’ religious background. The Bureau’s appeal argues that the state is overstepping its bounds in determining which activities fall under religious obligation. Proceedings will open on May 18 before the Wisconsin Supreme Court, with a decision expected in the fall term. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for religious liberty, and concerns are already being raised about the extent to which religious organizations can manage their own personnel in accordance with the dictates of their faith.