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Wicomico County Council adopts invocation policy requiring IRS-recognized organizations after debate over clergy eligibility
Summary
After debate about who may offer invocations, the council unanimously passed Resolution 32-2026, adding language that invocation speakers be from "IRS recognized religious organization[s]" (EIN) and that invocation participation remain voluntary and scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Wicomico County Council on Feb. 3 adopted Resolution 32-2026, establishing a two-minute invocation slot for legislative meetings offered by local clergy and faith leaders and clarifying eligibility requirements after extended council debate.
Council members discussed several possible eligibility tests. Vice President Merritt and others proposed inserting language to require that invocation speakers be associated with an "IRS recognized religious organization," which the county finance director, Pamela Lynn, confirmed would be evidenced by an EIN. Some councilmembers and members of the public raised concerns that small congregations or licensed clergy without an EIN could be excluded. Councilmember Merritt argued that IRS recognition would reduce the likelihood of someone claiming to be a religious group who is not a legitimate organized congregation.
The final amendment inserted the IRS-recognized requirement and removed ambiguous language about "groups," and the council approved the amended resolution unanimously. The policy directs staff to annually notify clergy and faith leaders by email and post a sign-up link on the county website; the council also recorded that participation is voluntary and that the council will not control invocation content. The policy preserves a moment of silence when no speaker is available.
Supporters said the requirement balances openness with a safeguard against misuse; critics warned of edge cases such as retired clergy or small congregations that may not have EINs and encouraged future adjustments if problems arise. Resolution 32-2026 passed as amended.
