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The ACLU and public school teachers are in court challenging lawmakers over plans to allow tax dollars to go to religious institutions. Last session lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment for the 2012 ballot that would allow the state to give money to religious businesses, charities and schools. At three o’clock a Leon County Judge began hearing the case. ACLU Legal Director Randall Marshall says the change would be bad for the state and churches, because it would encourage religious institutions to begin lobbying.

“It could present interference with the ability of a church to do what it wants to do according to its religious tenants and beliefs,” said Marshall.

The Florida Education Association says if the legislature wins and the voters approve the change, money would begin flowing to religious schools at the expense of public schools.