Sixth Circuit Rules in Favor of Native Prisoners in RLUIPA Matter

Matthew L.M. Fletcher

Here are the materials in Haight v. Thompson:

Appellant Brief

Appellant Letter Brief

Appellee Brief

Appellee Letter Brief

CA6 Opinion

An excerpt:

The appeal presents three questions: (1) Is there a triable issue of fact over whether RLUIPA gives the inmates a right to have access to a sweat lodge for faith-based  ceremonies? (2) Is there a triable issue of fact over whether RLUIPA gives the inmates a right to buffalo meat and other traditional foods for a faith-based once-a-year powwow? (3) Does RLUIPA permit inmates to collect money damages from prison officials sued in their individual capacities? The answers, as we explain below, are yes, yes and no.