Supreme Court signals support for Catholic preschools in Colorado funding dispute

The Supreme Court's conservative majority appeared supportive during oral arguments on Tuesday of two Catholic parishes challenging Colorado's Universal Preschool Program, which excludes schools that deny admission to children of LGBTQ+ parents. The parishes argue the requirement violates their religious freedom, while the state contends the nondiscrimination condition applies neutrally to all participating preschools.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh suggested a "win/win" solution, while Justice Sonia Sotomayor pressed the plaintiffs on the implications of using public funds while excluding certain families.

The court will decide whether to narrow a 36-year-old precedent that religious practices do not exempt entities from broadly applicable laws. The Trump administration supports the religious plaintiffs, and a ruling is expected by spring. The Becket Fund, representing the parishes, noted a 20% enrollment drop and two school closures, while the state highlighted that numerous religious schools continue to participate.