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From: atkins@opus.UUCP (Brian Atkins)
Newsgroups: net.legal,net.religion,net.politics
Subject: Violation of separation church and state????
Message-ID: <1192@opus.UUCP>
Date: Sun, 12-May-85 23:34:41 EDT
Article-I.D.: opus.1192
Posted: Sun May 12 23:34:41 1985
Date-Received: Thu, 16-May-85 02:28:34 EDT
Distribution: net
Organization: NBI,Inc, Boulder CO
Lines: 29
Xref: linus net.legal:1321 net.religion:6483 net.politics:8344


I have a question, which I would like to hear argued by any parties
from all these news groups.  I have a very lay understanding of separation 
of church and state and would like to see good arguments pro and con on 
this particular example, which I feel is in clear violation (and if it isn't,
under current interpretation, I would like to see an new interpretation).


Here is the example.  Here in Colorado, it is against the law to sell liquor
(and automobiles) retail on Sunday.  Bars and restaurants can sell prepaired
drinks and whatnot, but you can't buy bottles of the stuff in liquor stores.

I presume that this law is motivated by the Christian sabbath, as I can
see no other reason behind it (if this isn't the reason behind it, please
let me know what is).  

Assuming this, Is this not a clear violation of the separation of church 
and state?  Is S of C & S a basis for constitutionality, is it just custom,
or does it only apply to laws which seek to restrict religious practices?

If replies are sent to the net all can follow the argument (assuming
someone other than myself is interested...).  If this bothers someone,
sing out and I'll formally request replies to myself via mail rather than
net.

Ever seeking enlightenment...

Brian Atkins   ...{attunix, hao, allegra, ucbvax}!nbires!atkins
NBI Inc., P.O. Box 9001, Boulder CO 80301	(303) 444-5710