Overview

• On June 4, 2025, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals found San Diego’s ordinance unconstitutional as a content-based restriction on speech
• The court held that the city failed to demonstrate how prohibiting yoga classes advanced its interests in public safety or park enjoyment
• Judges noted the ban was underinclusive by singling out yoga while allowing other group activities without explanation
• Yoga instructors Steven Hubbard and Amy Baack, who sued in June 2024, hailed the decision as a vindication of their First Amendment rights
• San Diego officials are evaluating the ruling and have not yet decided whether to seek further review