Case: Cousins v. School Board of Orange County

6:22-cv-01312 | U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida

Filed Date: July 25, 2022

Closed Date: Aug. 16, 2023

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

This is a case challenging Florida's H.B. 1557, commonly known as the "Don't Say Gay" law. The state measure restricts instruction about gender identity and sexual orientation in schools. Plaintiffs in this case included students attending Florida schools and their parents, as well as a nonprofit CenterLink that has members, including LGTBQ+ community centers, in various Florida counties. The plaintiffs sued various school boards under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, alleging that H.B. 1557 violated the Firs…

This is a case challenging Florida's H.B. 1557, commonly known as the "Don't Say Gay" law. The state measure restricts instruction about gender identity and sexual orientation in schools. Plaintiffs in this case included students attending Florida schools and their parents, as well as a nonprofit CenterLink that has members, including LGTBQ+ community centers, in various Florida counties. The plaintiffs sued various school boards under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, alleging that H.B. 1557 violated the First Amendment by infringing their freedom of speech and expression and right to receive information. They also alleged that the law was overbroad, in violation of the First Amendment, and vague, in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause. Finally, they alleged that H.B. 1557 violated the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause by discriminating on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and transgender status. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida on July 25, 2022, and the plaintiffs sought declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as attorney’s fees. The plaintiffs were represented by private counsel and various non-profit organizations, including Lambda Legal and the Southern Poverty Law Center. Judge Wendy W. Berger was assigned to the case. 

The complaint alleged that H.B. 1557 is intentionally vague as to limit a broad range of discussion in schools around relevant issues. According to the complaint, H.B. 1557 bans discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in grades K-3 and restricts such discussions for students through high school based on undefined standards of appropriateness. The law does not define terms central to the legislation’s scope, including “gender identity,” “sexual orientation,” “class instruction” or “age appropriate.” Further, H.B. 1557 applies to any grade where “classroom instruction” is not “age-appropriate” or “in accordance with state standards,” none of which were defined, leaving teachers and schools guessing as to how to comply. The bill also removes guidance and instructions to teachers on how to respond to anti-LGBTQ+ bullying.

On August 26, 2022, the plaintiffs moved for a preliminary injunction. On October 14, 2022, they amended their complaint to add a request for monetary damages.

On October 20, 2022, the court denied the plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction and dismissed their complaint, finding that the plaintiffs failed to establish standing. The court found that CenterLink failed to show sufficient injury from the bill or that their harms could be redressed by a favorable decision. The court also held that the parent and student plaintiffs’ generalized statements surrounding chilled speech did not provide sufficient specificity of injury. Finally, the court also held that the plaintiffs had failed to establish they would succeed on the merits of their claim because they had not sufficiently connected the alleged constitutional violations to the specific defendants. 636 F.Supp.3d 1360.

Plaintiffs were permitted to file another amended complaint, which was submitted on November 3, 2022. The amended complaint retained all the allegations of constitutional violations set forth in the initial filing. 

On August 16, 2023, the court granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss for lack of standing and failure to state a claim. The court held that most of the plaintiffs lacked standing because they could not allege a concrete injury, or could not connect that injury to H.B. 1557. The few plaintiffs that had standing were dismissed for failure to state a claim because they had not sufficiently connected the specific defendants to the alleged rights violations. Therefore, the court dismissed the case. 687 F.Supp.3d 1251.

The case is now closed. 

Summary Authors

Isabel Bysiewicz (3/10/2025)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/64419370/parties/cousins-v-school-board-of-orange-county/


Judge(s)

Berger, Wendy Williams (Florida)

Attorney for Plaintiff

Boyd, Samuel T.S. (Florida)

Attorney for Defendant

Bell, Jon Erik (Florida)

Bell, Daniel (Florida)

Boeckman, Laura J. (Florida)

Documents in the Clearinghouse

Documents in this case
1

6:22-cv-01312

Complaint for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief

July 25, 2022

July 25, 2022

Complaint
81

6:22-cv-01312

Order

Oct. 20, 2022

Oct. 20, 2022

Order/Opinion

636 F.Supp.3d 1360

82

6:22-cv-01312

Second Amended Complaint for Declaratory, Injunctive, and Other Relief

Nov. 3, 2022

Nov. 3, 2022

Complaint
133

6:22-cv-01312

Order

Feb. 7, 2023

Feb. 7, 2023

Order/Opinion

2023 WL 5985207

143

6:22-cv-01312

Order

Aug. 16, 2023

Aug. 16, 2023

Order/Opinion

687 F.Supp.3d 1251

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/64419370/cousins-v-school-board-of-orange-county/

Last updated June 26, 2026, 5:27 a.m.

Docket for: Cousins v. School Board of Orange County
ECF Number Date Description Link
1 July 25, 2022

COMPLAINT against All Defendants with Jury Demand (Filing fee $402 receipt number AFLMDC-19810558) filed by All Plaintiffs. (Attachments: # 1 Civil Cover Sheet, # 2 Proposed Summons, # 3 Proposed Summons, # 4 Proposed Summons, # 5 Proposed Summons)(Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 07/25/2022)

1 Civil Cover Sheet

View on PACER

2 Proposed Summons

View on PACER

3 Proposed Summons

View on PACER

4 Proposed Summons

View on PACER

5 Proposed Summons

View on PACER

Clearinghouse
2 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by CenterLink, Inc. identifying Corporate Parent CenterLink, Inc. for CenterLink, Inc. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

RECAP
3 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by R.R.D. identifying Corporate Parent R.R.D. for R.R.D. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

RECAP
4 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by K.R.D. identifying Corporate Parent K.R.D. for K.R.D. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text(KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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5 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by Jennifer Cousins identifying Corporate Parent Cousins, Jennifer for Jennifer Cousins. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

RECAP
6 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by Vikranth Reddy Gongidi identifying Corporate Parent Gongidi, Vikranth for Vikranth Reddy Gongidi. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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7 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by Will Larkins. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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8 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by David Dinan. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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9 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by N.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text(KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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10 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by P.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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11 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text(KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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12 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by M.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 7/26/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 07/25/2022)

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13 July 25, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by Matthew Cousins. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 07/25/2022)

RECAP
14 July 25, 2022

NOTICE of a related action per Local Rule 1.07(c) by Jennifer Cousins. Related case(s): Yes (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 07/25/2022)

RECAP
15 July 26, 2022

NEW CASE ASSIGNED to Judge Wendy W. Berger and Magistrate Judge Daniel C. Irick. New case number: 6:22-cv-1312-WWB-DCI. (SJB) (Entered: 07/26/2022)

RECAP
16 July 26, 2022

NOTICE to counsel Camilla B. Taylor, Kell L. Olson, Paul D. Castillo and Jennifer Vail: Local Rule 2.01(c), Special Admission of Non-Resident Lawyer - File a Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Co-counsel with filing rights may electronically file the motion on behalf of the non-resident lawyer or the motion may be filed on paper; Pay the Special Admission Fee; Submit a Pro Hac Vice E-File Registration through PACER. Visit www.flmd.uscourts.gov/for-lawyers for details (Signed by Deputy Clerk). (KNC) (Entered: 07/26/2022)

RECAP
17 July 26, 2022

SUMMONS issued as to All Defendants. (KNC) (Entered: 07/26/2022)

RECAP
July 26, 2022

Case Assigned/Reassigned

July 26, 2022

Notice to Counsel of Local Rule

18 July 27, 2022

STANDING ORDER ON DISCOVERY MOTIONS. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel C. Irick on 2/1/2021. (RN) (Entered: 07/27/2022)

RECAP
19 July 28, 2022

NOTICE TO COUNSEL AND PARTIES: The Middle District of Florida's revised Local Rules become effective February 1, 2021 and can be found on the Court's public website https://www.flmd.uscourts.gov/local-rules. For a just and efficient resolution of this case, the parties are DIRECTED to read and comply with the Middle District of Florida's Local Rules. See Local Rule 1.01(a). Failure to comply with ANY Local Rules or Court Orders may result in the imposition of sanctions including, but not limited to, the dismissal of this action or entry of default without further notice. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 7/28/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 07/28/2022)

RECAP
20 July 28, 2022

NOTICE of Local Rule 3.02(a)(2), which requires the parties in every civil proceeding, except those described in subsection (d), to file a case management report (CMR) using the uniform form at www.flmd.uscourts.gov. The CMR must be filed (1) within forty days after any defendant appears in an action originating in this court, (2) within forty days after the docketing of an action removed or transferred to this court, or (3) within seventy days after service on the United States attorney in an action against the United States, its agencies or employees. Judges may have a special CMR form for certain types of cases. These forms can be found at www.flmd.uscourts.gov under the Forms tab for each judge. (Signed by Deputy Clerk). (RMF) (Entered: 07/28/2022)

RECAP
July 28, 2022

*Order no pdf

July 28, 2022

Notice to Counsel of Local Rule

21 Aug. 1, 2022

ORDER of recusal. The Clerk is directed to reassign this case to another United States Magistrate Judge. See Order. Signed by Magistrate Judge Daniel C. Irick on 8/1/2022. (RN) (Entered: 08/01/2022)

RECAP
22 Aug. 1, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Jon Robert Phillips on behalf of The School Board of Duval County, Florida (Phillips, Jon) (Entered: 08/01/2022)

RECAP
23 Aug. 1, 2022

NEW CASE ASSIGNED to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. New case number: 6:22-cv-1312-WWB-LHP. Magistrate Judge Daniel C. Irick no longer assigned to the case. (SJB) (Entered: 08/01/2022)

RECAP
Aug. 1, 2022

Case Assigned/Reassigned

24 Aug. 2, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Laura J. Boeckman on behalf of The School Board of Duval County, Florida (Boeckman, Laura) (Entered: 08/02/2022)

RECAP
25 Aug. 3, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Howard S. Marks on behalf of The School Board of Orange County, Florida (Marks, Howard) (Entered: 08/03/2022)

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26 Aug. 3, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Sheena A. Thakrar on behalf of The School Board of Orange County, Florida (Thakrar, Sheena) (Entered: 08/03/2022)

RECAP
27 Aug. 4, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Matthew Joseph Carson on behalf of The School Board of Indian River County, Florida (Carson, Matthew) (Entered: 08/04/2022)

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28 Aug. 4, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Jeffrey Slanker on behalf of The School Board of Indian River County, Florida (Slanker, Jeffrey) (Entered: 08/04/2022)

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29 Aug. 4, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Robert Jacob Sniffen on behalf of The School Board of Indian River County, Florida (Sniffen, Robert) (Entered: 08/04/2022)

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30 Aug. 4, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Terry Joseph Harmon on behalf of The School Board of Indian River County, Florida (Harmon, Terry) (Entered: 08/04/2022)

RECAP
31 Aug. 9, 2022

Unopposed MOTION for Extension of Time to File Answer re 1 Complaint, by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/09/2022)

RECAP
32 Aug. 10, 2022

MOTION for Jennifer Vail to appear pro hac vice, Special Admission fee paid, Receipt No. AFLMDC-19866843 for $150 by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/10/2022)

RECAP
33 Aug. 10, 2022

ORDER granting 31 Unopposed Motion for Extension of Time to Respond to Plaintiffs' Complaint. The deadline for Defendants to respond to the Complaint is extended up to and including September 30, 2022. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 8/10/2022. (ECJ) (Entered: 08/10/2022)

RECAP
34 Aug. 10, 2022

ORDER denying without prejudice 32 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 8/10/2022. (ECJ) (Entered: 08/10/2022)

RECAP
35 Aug. 11, 2022

MOTION for Jennifer Vail to appear pro hac vice by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/11/2022)

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36 Aug. 16, 2022

Unopposed MOTION for Paul D. Castillo to appear pro hac vice by All Plaintiffs. (Castillo, Paul) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/16/2022)

RECAP
Aug. 16, 2022

. Special Admission for Non-Resident Attorney Paul D. Castillo. (Castillo, Paul)

37 Aug. 18, 2022

CERTIFICATE of interested persons and corporate disclosure statement by The School Board of Indian River County, Florida. (Carson, Matthew) (Entered: 08/18/2022)

RECAP
38 Aug. 18, 2022

CERTIFICATE of interested persons and corporate disclosure statement by The School Board of Orange County, Florida. (Thakrar, Sheena) (Entered: 08/18/2022)

RECAP
39 Aug. 22, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Sean Fahey on behalf of The School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida (Fahey, Sean) (Entered: 08/22/2022)

RECAP
Aug. 22, 2022

PRO HAC VICE FEES paid by attorney PAUL D. CASTILLO, appearing on behalf of (Filing fee $150 receipt number ORL104893.) Related document: 36 Unopposed MOTION for Paul D. Castillo to appear pro hac vice . (SRD)

40 Aug. 23, 2022

CORPORATE Disclosure Statement by The School Board of Duval County, Florida. (Boeckman, Laura) (Entered: 08/23/2022)

RECAP
41 Aug. 23, 2022

Unopposed MOTION for Camilla B. Taylor to appear pro hac vice, Special Admission fee paid, Receipt No. AFLMDC-19916216 for $150 by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/23/2022)

RECAP
42 Aug. 23, 2022

Unopposed MOTION for Kell L. Olson to appear pro hac vice, Special Admission fee paid, Receipt No. AFLMDC-19916319 for $150 by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 08/23/2022)

RECAP
Aug. 23, 2022

REFUND for duplicate payment. Receipt number AFLMDC-19866761 refunded in the amount of $ $150.00 paid to Debra Dandeneau. (NLC) Modified on 8/23/2022 to edit docket text (KNC).

43 Aug. 24, 2022

ORDER granting 36 Unopposed Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice; granting 41 Unopposed Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice; granting 42 Unopposed Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Paul D. Castillo, Esq., Camilla B. Taylor, Esq., and Kell L. Olson, Esq. may specially appear in this case as counsel for Plaintiffs. The Clerk of Court is directed to mail a copy of this Order to Attorneys Castillo, Taylor, and Olson. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 8/24/2022. (ECJ) (Entered: 08/24/2022)

RECAP
44 Aug. 26, 2022

ORDER granting 35 Motion to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Jennifer Vail, Esq. may specially appear in this case as counsel for Plaintiffs. The Clerk of Court is directed to mail a copy of this Order to Attorney Vail. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 8/26/2022. (ECJ) (Entered: 08/26/2022)

RECAP
45 Aug. 26, 2022

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction by All Plaintiffs. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Exhibit 2, # 3 Exhibit 3, # 4 Exhibit 4, # 5 Exhibit 5, # 6 Exhibit 6, # 7 Exhibit 7, # 8 Exhibit 8, # 9 Exhibit 9, # 10 Exhibit 10, # 11 Exhibit 11, # 12 Proposed Order)(Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 08/26/2022)

RECAP
46 Aug. 26, 2022

REQUEST for oral argument and evidentiary hearing. by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 8/29/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 08/26/2022)

RECAP
47 Aug. 29, 2022

ORDER: Defendants shall file their responses to the Motion for Preliminary Injunction on or before September 2, 2022. On or before September 6, 2022, the parties shall file a joint notice, not to exceed ten pages, informing this Court if an evidentiary hearing is necessary in this matter. If the Court determines, after review of the parties' submissions and joint notice, that an evidentiary hearing is necessary for the resolution of the Motion, a hearing will be set by the Court. Otherwise, the Court will issue a ruling based on the parties' written submissions. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 8/29/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 08/29/2022)

RECAP
Aug. 29, 2022

Set deadlines as to 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . Responses due by 9/2/2022 (KNC)

Aug. 30, 2022

Set Motion and R&R deadlines/hearings - PUBLIC

48 Sept. 2, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Henry Charles Whitaker on behalf of Attorney General of Florida (Whitaker, Henry) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

RECAP
49 Sept. 2, 2022

RESPONSE to Motion re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by The School Board of Duval County, Florida. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Declaration of Heather Albritton)(Boeckman, Laura) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

RECAP
50 Sept. 2, 2022

RESPONSE in Opposition re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by The School Board of Indian River County, Florida. (Carson, Matthew) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

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51 Sept. 2, 2022

MOTION to Intervene by Attorney General of Florida. (Whitaker, Henry) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. (Entered: 09/02/2022)

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52 Sept. 2, 2022

RESPONSE in Opposition re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by Attorney General of Florida. (Whitaker, Henry) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

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53 Sept. 2, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Bilal Ahmed Faruqui on behalf of Attorney General of Florida (Faruqui, Bilal) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

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54 Sept. 2, 2022

RESPONSE to Motion re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by The School Board of Orange County, Florida. (Thakrar, Sheena) Modified on 9/6/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 09/02/2022)

RECAP
55 Sept. 2, 2022

RESPONSE in Opposition re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by The School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida. (Fahey, Sean) (Entered: 09/02/2022)

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56 Sept. 6, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Jon Erik Bell on behalf of The School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida (Bell, Jon) (Entered: 09/06/2022)

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57 Sept. 6, 2022

CERTIFICATE of interested persons and corporate disclosure statement by The School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida. (Fahey, Sean) (Entered: 09/06/2022)

RECAP
58 Sept. 6, 2022

NOTICE of Appearance by Anita J. Patel on behalf of Attorney General of Florida (Patel, Anita) (Entered: 09/06/2022)

RECAP
59 Sept. 6, 2022

Joint NOTICE Regarding Evidentiary Hearing on Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 9/7/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 09/06/2022)

RECAP
60 Sept. 8, 2022

MOTION for Leave to File Other Document: Reply in Support of Plaintiffs' Motion to Preliminary Injunction. by All Plaintiffs. (Dandeneau, Debra) Motions referred to Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price. Modified on 9/8/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 09/08/2022)

RECAP
61 Sept. 12, 2022

ENDORSED ORDER granting 60 Plaintiffs' Motion for Leave to File Reply. Plaintiffs may file a single reply to Defendants' Responses to the Motion for Preliminary Injunction, not to exceed seven pages inclusive of all parts, on or before September 19, 2022. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 9/12/2022. (MDJ) (Entered: 09/12/2022)

RECAP
62 Sept. 12, 2022

ORDER granting 51 Attorney General Moody's Unopposed Motion to Intervene. Attorney General Moody shall file a response to the complaint (Doc. No. 1) on or before September 30, 2022. See PDF for additional details. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 9/12/2022. (BAB) (Entered: 09/12/2022)

RECAP
63 Sept. 12, 2022

CASE MANAGEMENT REPORT. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 09/12/2022)

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64 Sept. 12, 2022

ORDER for Jennifer Vail to comply with the administrative procedures regarding electronic filing on or before 9/26/2022. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 9/12/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 09/12/2022)

RECAP
Sept. 12, 2022

Set deadlines as to 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . Plaintiffs' Reply to Defendants' Responses due by 9/19/2022. (KNC)

Sept. 12, 2022

Order on Motion for Leave to File Document

65 Sept. 19, 2022

**Stricken pursuant to Order 66.** REPLY to Response to Motion re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 9/20/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). Modified on 9/21/2022, to add stricken language. (SPB) (Entered: 09/19/2022)

RECAP
66 Sept. 20, 2022

ENDORSED ORDER striking 65 Plaintiffs' Reply in Support of Motion for Preliminary Injunction. Pursuant to the 61 September 12, 2022 Order, Plaintiffs were permitted to file a reply "not to exceed seven pages inclusive of all parts." Nevertheless, Plaintiffs' Reply is eight pages in length, with the necessary signature and certificate of service contained on the final page. The 45 Motion for Preliminary Injunction similarly runs afoul of the page limitations for motions clearly set forth in the Local Rules of this Court. M.D. Fla. R. 3.01(a) (providing that a motion may be "no longer than twenty-five pages inclusive of all parts"). In the interests of an expedient resolution, the Court did not strike the Motion for Preliminary Injunction, but even after a clear directive on the record, Plaintiffs have been unable to comply with the requirements of this Court. Accordingly, the Reply is stricken. The Court will permit Plaintiffs one final opportunity to file a reply that complies with this Court's Order, but Plaintiffs are cautioned that future failures to comply with all applicable rules and orders of this Court may result in the striking or denial of filings without notice or leave to refile. Plaintiffs may file an amended reply, not to exceed seven pages in total, before 5:00 p.m. today. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 9/20/2022. (MDJ) (Entered: 09/20/2022)

RECAP
67 Sept. 20, 2022

REPLY to Response to Motion re 45 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction . filed by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C.. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 09/20/2022)

RECAP
Sept. 20, 2022

Order to strike

68 Sept. 30, 2022

**STRICKEN PER 69 ORDER** First AMENDED COMPLAINT for Declaratory, Injunctive, and Other Relief against All Defendants with Jury Demand. filed by All Plaintiffs.(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/3/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). Modified on 10/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 09/30/2022)

RECAP
69 Oct. 3, 2022

ORDER: Plaintiffs' First Amended Complaint 68 is STRICKEN. On or before October 11, 2022, Plaintiffs shall file proofs of service in accordance with Local Rule 1.10(a). Failure to do so may result in the dismissal of this action without further notice. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 10/3/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 10/03/2022)

RECAP
70 Oct. 3, 2022

PROOF of service as to The School Board of Orange County by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/03/2022)

RECAP
71 Oct. 3, 2022

PROOF of service as to The School Board of Indian River County by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/03/2022)

RECAP
72 Oct. 3, 2022

PROOF of service as to The School Board of Palm Beach County by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/03/2022)

RECAP
73 Oct. 3, 2022

PROOF of service as to The School Board of Duval County by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A)(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/03/2022)

RECAP
74 Oct. 4, 2022

ENDORSED ORDER: the deadline for Defendants to respond to the 1 Complaint is extended through October 18, 2022. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 10/4/2022. (MDJ) (Entered: 10/04/2022)

RECAP
Oct. 4, 2022

Reset deadlines: for All Defendants. Response to the Complaint due 10/18/2022. (KNC)

Oct. 4, 2022

*Order no pdf

75 Oct. 6, 2022

CASE MANAGEMENT AND SCHEDULING ORDER: Amended Pleadings due by 10/19/2022 Joinder of Parties due by 10/19/2022 Discovery due by 4/5/2024 Dispositive motions due by 5/7/2024 Pretrial statement due by 9/9/2024 All other motions due by 8/7/2024 Plaintiff disclosure of expert report due by 2/6/2024 Defendant disclosure of expert report due by 3/7/2024 Trial Status Conference set for 9/10/2024 at 10:00 AM in Orlando Courtroom 3 B before Judge Wendy W. Berger Bench Trial set for the October 2024 trial term commencing on 10/7/2024 at 09:00 AM in Orlando Courtroom 3 B before Judge Wendy W. Berger. Conduct mediation hearing by 4/19/2024. Lead counsel to coordinate dates. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 10/6/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 10/06/2022)

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76 Oct. 6, 2022

ORDER: the parties are directed to confer, and then advise the Court, on the selection of a mediator, on or before October 21, 2022. Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 10/6/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 10/06/2022)

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77 Oct. 7, 2022

STANDING ORDER on Discovery Motions. Signed by Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price on 2/7/2022.(BAB) (Entered: 10/07/2022)

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78 Oct. 14, 2022

Joint NOTICE of Filing Amended Complaint by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/17/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/14/2022)

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79 Oct. 14, 2022

First AMENDED COMPLAINT against All Defendants with Jury Demand. filed by All Plaintiffs.(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/17/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/14/2022)

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80 Oct. 19, 2022

NOTICE OF SELECTION of Thomas H. Bateman, III as mediator by Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C. (Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 10/20/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 10/19/2022)

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81 Oct. 20, 2022

ORDER: Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction 45 is DENIED. The First Amended Complaint 79 is DISMISSED without prejudice. On or before November 3, 2022, Plaintiffs may file an amended complaint in accordance with this Order. Failure to timely file an amended pleading that corrects the deficiencies noted herein may result in the dismissal of this action without further notice.Signed by Judge Wendy W. Berger on 10/20/2022. (RMF) (Entered: 10/20/2022)

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Oct. 20, 2022

Set deadlines: Amended Complaint due by 11/3/2022 (KNC)

Oct. 21, 2022

Set/reset deadlines/hearings-PUBLIC

82 Nov. 3, 2022

SECOND AMENDED COMPLAINT against Attorney General of Florida, The School Board of Duval County, Florida, The School Board of Indian River County, Florida, The School Board of Orange County, Florida, The School Board of Palm Beach County, Florida, State Board of Education with Jury Demand. filed by All Plaintiffs.(Dandeneau, Debra) Modified on 11/4/2022 to edit docket text (KNC). (Entered: 11/03/2022)

Clearinghouse
83 Nov. 3, 2022

PROPOSED summons to be issued by CenterLink, Inc., Jennifer Cousins, Matthew Cousins, David Dinan, Vikranth Reddy Gongidi, K.R.D., Will Larkins, M.C., N.C., P.C. R.R.D., S.C.. (Dandeneau, Debra) (Entered: 11/03/2022)

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Case Details

State / Territory:

Florida

Case Type(s):

Speech and Religious Freedom

Education

Key Dates

Filing Date: July 25, 2022

Closing Date: Aug. 16, 2023

Case Ongoing: No

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

Group of parents and their children that attend school in Florida's Orange and Indian River Counties, and a nonprofit group that provides member-based LGBTQ centers

Attorney Organizations:

Lambda Legal

Southern Poverty Law Center

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

School District

School Board of Duval County

School Board of Indian River County

School Board of Orange County

School Board of Palm Beach County

Defendant Type(s):

Elementary/Secondary School

Jurisdiction-wide

Case Details

Causes of Action:

42 U.S.C. § 1983

Ex parte Young (federal or state officials)

Constitutional Clause(s):

Due Process

Due Process: Procedural Due Process

Equal Protection

Freedom of speech/association

Other Dockets:

Middle District of Florida 6:22-cv-01312

Available Documents:

Any published opinion

Complaint (any)

Non-settlement Outcome

Trial Court Docket

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Defendant

Relief Granted:

None

Source of Relief:

None

Issues

General/Misc.:

Education

Juveniles

School/University policies

Discrimination Area:

Disparate Treatment

Discrimination Basis:

Gender identity

Sex discrimination

Sexual orientation

Affected Sex/Gender(s):

Transgender

LGBTQ+:

LGBTQ+

Recommended Citation