Hearing to begin in Okla. on Islamic law lawsuit

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A federal judge in Oklahoma will decide whether to block a constitutional amendment that prohibits state courts from considering international or Islamic law when deciding cases.

Monday’s hearing is on a request for a preliminary injunction against the new amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution. The measure was approved by 70 percent of Oklahoma voters in the Nov. 2 general election.

It is being challenged in a lawsuit filed by Muneer Awad who is executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Oklahoma. Awad alleges the measure stigmatizes his religion and would invalidate his will.

U.S. District Judge Vicki Miles-LaGrange issued a temporary restraining order against the measure on Nov. 8.