Federal Judge: Pennsylvania Governor's COVID Order Is UNCONSTITUTIONAL

Published on September 14, 2020
Duration: 5:52

This video from Guns & Gadgets discusses a federal court ruling declaring Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's COVID-19 orders unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge William S. Stickman IV found that restrictions on gathering sizes and business operations violated the First and Fourteenth Amendments. The ruling emphasizes that constitutional liberties cannot be suspended, even during emergencies, and the state plans to appeal.

Quick Summary

U.S. District Judge William S. Stickman IV ruled Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's COVID-19 orders unconstitutional, citing violations of the First Amendment's freedom of assembly and the Fourteenth Amendment's due process and equal protection clauses. The judge emphasized that constitutional liberties cannot be suspended, even during emergencies.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Court Ruling
  2. 00:26Judge Stickman's Decision Explained
  3. 01:23State Response and Appeal Plans
  4. 03:03Plaintiffs in the Lawsuit
  5. 03:38Analysis of the Judge's Opinion

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the federal judge rule regarding Pennsylvania's COVID-19 orders?

U.S. District Judge William S. Stickman IV ruled that Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf's COVID-19 orders, which restricted gathering sizes and closed non-essential businesses, were unconstitutional. The ruling stated these orders violated the First Amendment's freedom of assembly and the Fourteenth Amendment's due process and equal protection clauses.

Who brought the lawsuit against Pennsylvania's COVID-19 orders?

The lawsuit was filed by several plaintiffs, including business owners (such as hair salons and drive-in theaters), U.S. Representative Mike Kelly, state representatives Daryl Metcalfe, Marci Mustello, and Tim Bonner, and several Pennsylvania counties.

What is the legal basis for the ruling against Governor Wolf's COVID-19 orders?

The ruling is based on violations of fundamental constitutional rights. Specifically, Judge Stickman found that the orders infringed upon the First Amendment right to freedom of assembly and the Fourteenth Amendment's guarantees of due process and equal protection under the law.

Will Pennsylvania appeal the ruling on its COVID-19 orders?

Yes, the Governor's office, through spokeswoman Lindsey Kensinger, expressed disappointment with the ruling and stated their intention to appeal. They argued that the measures were necessary to protect public health and save lives during the pandemic.

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