A Texas justice of the peace, Dianne Hensley, has received over $640,000 in damages and attorneys’ fees after being disciplined for her refusal to officiate same-sex weddings due to her religious beliefs. This decision marks a significant win for religious freedoms in the state.

First Liberty Institute announced that Hensley was awarded $10,000 in damages because her religious freedom rights were found to be violated under Texas law. Additionally, the District Court of Travis County ordered the State Commission on Judicial Conduct to pay approximately $630,000 for Hensley’s legal fees.

Hiram Sasser, executive general counsel for First Liberty Institute, underscored the importance of the ruling for people of faith. He highlighted that Hensley was exercising her religious freedom and ensuring services through a referral system for couples whose weddings she chose not to officiate.

“It’s a great victory for people of faith,” said Sasser. “It’s important for people of faith to be able to decline to participate in things that are incompatible with their religious faith.”

Hensley initially faced disciplinary action in 2018 when the State Commission on Judicial Conduct warned her about continuing to officiate any weddings without including same-sex ceremonies. This warning led to legal action seeking to protect her rights and maintain her public service.

The Texas Supreme Court later amended rules to allow religious accommodations. The state legislature also took steps to reform the commission’s membership to prevent similar issues from arising in the future. These changes aim to protect individuals like Hensley from facing such dilemmas.

In an interview with Fox News Digital, Hensley expressed her gratitude, stating, “All I wanted to do was serve our community and maintain my faith commitments. I am thankful the law prevailed after eight long years, and we restored religious liberty to the land.”

The State Commission on Judicial Conduct has not publicly commented on the court’s decision.