N.Y. State Town Bans Holiday Signs

Talk about a bunch of Scrooges.

The town of Bethlehem, New York has voted not to display any sort of holiday greetings this year, fearing they might be favoring one religion over another.

All "Merry Christmas" written displays, as well as Hanukkah banners and displays, will not be put up this year.

The Albany Times Union reports that Bethlehem had displayed a Christmas tree and a Menorah in its central Four Corners area for many years.

Initially, the town explained to residents that the signs were a traffic distraction. The town eventually changed their story, saying they were afraid of infringing on constitutional rights

According to the NY Daily News, the town of Bethlehem has no law banning any kind of holiday display.

Town supervisor John Clarkson said that the town's attorney warned the board this year that municipalities might be in legal hot water over any sign celebrating one holiday in particular. Clarkson said

We're a municipality, not a religious entity. Advocating on behalf of any religion is one of those gray zones you don't want to get into.

An Arizona based nonprofit legal group, know as the Alliance Defending Freedom, even sent the town a letter last week advising Bethlehem officials that posting a Merry Christmas sign is allowed by law.