Politics & Government
Baker Didn't Overstep Authority In COVID Orders: MA High Court
The Supreme Judicial Court upheld Baker's executive orders, saying they didn't violate civil rights.
Gov. Charlie Baker's broad emergency powers during the COVID-19 pandemic were affirmed by the state's highest court in a ruling Thursday.
The Supreme Judicial Court upheld Baker's executive orders, including shutting down wide swaths of industry and requiring face coverings, saying the restrictions did not violate anyone's civil rights.
The lawsuit was filed by the New Civil Liberties on behalf of business owners and pastors.
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In the decision, Supreme Judicial Court Justice Elspeth Cypher cited the grim toll of the pandemic, writing "reducing the dangers of COVID-19 is a significant government interest ... "
If the lawsuit had been successful it could have forced major changes in the state's response to what has been an accelerating pandemic.
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"We conclude that the [Civil Defense Act] provides authority for the Governor's March 10, 2020, declaration of a state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and for the issuance of the subsequent emergency orders," Cypher wrote.
See the full ruling below.
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