Judge Sets Hearing in Christian Health Care Group Controversy

The dispute between a Christians-only health plan and the Kentucky state government will result in a court hearing later this month.

Medi-Share is a Florida-based ministry. Members can pay into the plan, then withdraw funds to pay medical bills. The state Supreme Court has classified Medi-Share as an insurance company that is not allowed religious exemptions to state law. Recently, the dispute garnered the attention of local tea partiers, who took Medi-Share's side.

Medi-Share has continued to operate, and lawyers for the state have asked Franklin Circuit Judge Thomas Wingate to hold the organization in contempt. Medi-Share officials have asked for a hearing so they can explain the changes they've made to comply with state regulations.

There are more than 700 Medi-Share members in Kentucky. The hearing is set for August 30.