UI Decision 8/27/1999

This is a rare decision overturning a church-related organization's claim of exemption from the UC system under G.L. c. 151A, §6(r). Claimant worked for as a director of residential services iin a home for developmentally disabled people. Employer was a separately incorporated, church-related assocation that operates social services programs funded 90% by government, with the churches providing some money and volunteers. There is no religious content to its program activities, its board and staff are not limited to members of any religion, and employer does not claim a religious exemption from registration with the Attorney General. On its third visit to the case, BOR concludes that employer has not met its burden of proving exemption from the law. BR-254187 Advocate: John Yannis, private practitioner