Michigan Christian Healthcare Centers Appeal Civil Rights Ruling to Sixth Circuit

Christian Healthcare Centers (CHC), a faith-based medical nonprofit operating in Plainfield Charter Township and Newaygo, Michigan, is appealing a federal district court ruling to the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

The case began in August 2022 when CHC filed a pre-enforcement lawsuit against Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and other state officials. The organization challenged provisions of Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), which prohibits employment and public accommodation discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

CHC argued that the law's requirements regarding hiring practices, pronoun use, and the provision of certain medical services violated its First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. The organization said compliance would force it to act against its religious mission.

The district court initially dismissed the case in March 2023 for lack of standing. The Sixth Circuit reversed that decision in September 2024, ruling that CHC had standing to challenge the employment and public accommodation provisions. The case then returned to the district court for further proceedings.

On August 5, 2026, Judge Jane M. Beckering denied CHC's motion for summary judgment and granted the state's cross-motion, effectively ruling against the organization at the district court level.

CHC filed an appeal with the Sixth Circuit in September 2026. The case is one of several nationwide in which faith-based organizations are challenging state civil rights laws that include sexual orientation and gender identity protections.

The Alliance Defending Freedom is representing CHC in the litigation.