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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — A legal battle could be brewing in Kentucky over the state's withdrawal of a tax incentive for a religious-themed Noah's Ark attraction.
The Christian ministry building the ark, Answers in Genesis, is challenging the state's decision to reject a sales tax rebate that could be worth $18 million.
Kentucky tourism officials in December withdrew preliminary approval for the theme park's tax benefit, saying they could not provide state money to an attraction that would screen hires for religious preference and proselytize to visitors.
But supporters of the project are encouraging the ministry to sue, and a legal expert says they could have success arguing the case in court.
Mike Johnson, an attorney representing Answers in Genesis, said the state is not allowed to treat religious groups differently than other entities seeking tax benefits.
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