University Star

Commissioners passed the initiative under a new county policy that states invocation prayers can be given as long as one belief or faith is not advanced or disparaged, according to an Oct. 16 Austin-American Statesman article. The new policy also dictates how and when religious leaders can say the prayer.

The new policy was brought about after discussion was open to the public on the issue last month, according to a Sept. 26 University Star article.

Americans United for the Separation of Church and State sent an initial letter to the court in April after a resident complained about the strictly Christian prayers said during the meetings. The court received a second letter in June threatening legal action if no response was received.