Commissioners vote for moment of prayer

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Miami-Dade County Commissioners have voted to pass a moment for a prayer in the commission chambers.

Commissioners voted 8-3 in favor of replacing a moment of silence before meetings with a prayer from a religious official selected by the

Commissioners.

Christian Family Coalition member Anthony Verdugo said, "I think that the county commission has moved into the 21st century. This is a victory for the community. It generates good will and respect for all."

Natasha Reeder opposed opening with a prayer. "It's a complete violation of separation of church and state and the US constitution," said Reeder. "It's gonna taint every decision the commissioners make from now on."

The American Civil Liberties Union is not happy with the decision either. They said it puts the county at risk of being sued.

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