(KUOO) — The Iowa Court of Appeals will hear oral arguments in Spirit Lake next month in a case stemming from Dordt University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements during the pandemic.
The proceedings are scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, at the Sami Bedell Center for the Performing Arts at Spirit Lake High School. Oral arguments will begin at 7:00 p.m. and are open to the public.
The case involves Andrew Perry, who was a nursing student at Dordt University when he sought an exemption from a COVID-19 vaccination requirement.
Perry requested an exemption based on his religious beliefs, but Dordt denied the request.
Lawsuit Filed Against Dordt
Perry filed a lawsuit against Dordt in 2022, alleging religious discrimination under the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
The district court ultimately dismissed the case after finding Perry did not have a sincere religious belief opposing the COVID-19 vaccine.
Perry appealed the ruling, bringing the case before the Iowa Court of Appeals.
The appellate court will hear arguments from both sides during the September 15 session in Spirit Lake. The Court of Appeals will not issue a ruling during the oral arguments, with a written decision expected at a later date.
