Austin News

April 14, 2025

U.S. Senator John Cornyn has reached out to the Department of Justice, urging them to investigate East Plano Islamic Center’s (EPIC) proposed community, known as EPIC Ranches City, in Josephine, Texas. The move comes after accusations that the project might infringe on the religious rights of non-Muslim communities including Christians and Jews.

In a letter addressed to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, Cornyn stated, "A master-planned ‘community of thousands of Muslims’ could violate the constitutional rights of Jewish and Christian Texans, by preventing them from living in this new community and discriminating against them within the community."

Senator Cornyn expressed his concern that the community might not provide equal protection under law to non-Muslim minorities, emphasizing the principle of religious freedom. "Religious discrimination, whether explicit or implicit, is unconstitutional under the First and Fourteenth Amendments. Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our nation’s values," he wrote.

EPIC and its associated corporation, Community Capital Partners, have planned the city as a religious community with an emphasis on Islamic principles, including a mosque, Islamic school, commercial areas, and other amenities. Cornyn’s letter highlights apprehension that the planned development might not adhere to existing federal and state laws, including the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which prohibits discrimination in housing.

The project is under state scrutiny by Governor Abbott. His investigations span multiple areas, including the licensing of a funeral home, investor disclosures, and potential consumer protection law violations. The Texas State Securities Board is also examining the center for compliance with securities requirements. Governor Abbott has also coordinated with the Texas Workforce Commission to probe possible housing discrimination.

"I recommend the Department investigate the community’s impact on the rights of Jewish and Christian Texans," Cornyn concludes his letter, urging federal officials to work with Texas-based authorities to ensure the EPIC Ranches City project complies with legal standards.