STILLWATER — A group of atheists is suing Washington County for refusing to register an atheist to perform marriage ceremonies.

Atheists for Human Rights and Rodney Michael Rogers filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Minnesota. They say the state law cited by the Washington County manager who refused the registration is unconstitutional. They say it violates the 14th Amendment, which guarantees the equal protection of laws.

A Golden Valley lawyer says the statute doesn’t properly ensure the qualification of a marriage celebrant when someone can be ordained online for $20.

The lawsuit requests a judge declare both the state law and the county’s policy unconstitutional. It also asks the court to issue a permanent injunction regarding marriage celebrants with atheistic beliefs.