Answers in Genesis, the creationist group building a Noah’s Ark-inspired theme park in Kentucky has confirmed it will sue the state for withdrawing agreed tax rebates.
Answers in Genesis CEO Ken Ham posted a YouTube video, saying it would sue for $18 million for denying the tax incentives.
"Our organization spent many months attempting to reason with state officials so that this lawsuit would not be necessary," Ham said.
"However, the state was so insistent on treating our religious entity as a second-class citizen that we were simply left with no alternative but to proceed to court. This is the latest example of increasing government hostility towards religion in America, and it’s certainly among the most blatant."
Tourism, arts and heritage cabinet secretary Bob Stewart had previously said Answers in Genesis was discriminating in its hiring procedures for requiring potential workers sign a ‘salvation testimony’ and a ‘creation belief statement.’
"It is readily apparent that the project has evolved from a tourist attraction to an extension of AIG’s ministry that will no longer permit the commonwealth to grant the project tourism development incentives," Stewart said.
A statement by Answers in Genesis said: "The decision by Kentucky officials, including Gov. Steve Beshear, violates federal and state law."
A lawyer working for the group said it will file the Federal lawsuit today.
The Ark Encounter theme park plans a 500-foot wooden replica of Noah’s Ark, a petting zoo, theater, and gift shop.
Despite the withdrawal of tax breaks construction will continue but the original scope of the theme park may be scaled back, the group said.
