(The Lion) Pro-life groups are suing Michigan over a state law they say is unconstitutionally forcing them to hire employees who oppose their fundamental mission and views on abortion.

Right to Life of Michigan and Pregnancy Resource Center recruit and hire only employees who “adhere to, agree to abide by, and can effectively communicate their pro-life views,” notes a complaint filed in federal court by Alliance Defending Freedom on behalf of the groups. Yet recent changes in Michigan employment law redefined sex discrimination to include “termination of a pregnancy,” meaning employers cannot filter applications or deprive job seekers of opportunities based on their views of abortion.

The state law prohibits employers from posting job openings that indicate a preference based on abortion views – and bars them from even asking applicants about those views, the complaint notes. The law also requires the organizations to include abortion coverage as a benefit in their insurance plans, ADF said.

The lawsuit marks the latest First Amendment battle over abortion, with the pro-life groups arguing the Constitution protects their right to “join with others to further a common cause” and avoid activities that directly contradict their beliefs.

“It makes no sense to force pro-life organizations to hire employees who disagree with that view,” ADF senior counsel Bryan Neihart said in a statement to The Lion. “Pro-life groups should be free to share the message of hope and joy with...

Read Full Story: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiyAFBVV95cUxNRWIxR3ZzZHJXTTJ6UVdNakZp...