What constitutional right is impacted by an ordinance prohibiting churches from meeting?

The correct choice pertains to substantive due process, which is a constitutional principle that protects certain fundamental rights from government interference. When an ordinance prohibits churches from meeting, it potentially infringes upon the First Amendment right to free exercise of religion. Substantive due process ensures that individuals have the right to engage in activities considered fundamental to their liberty, which, in this context, includes the practice of religion.

Substantive due process is concerned with whether the government has a sufficient justification for depriving individuals of certain rights. By banning church meetings, the government may be placing unjustifiable limitations on people's ability to practice their faith, which could be viewed as a violation of substantive due process principles.

In contrast, the other options don't directly relate to the impact of an ordinance on the right to gather for religious practices. The right to vote pertains to electoral participation, equal protection focuses on ensuring individuals are not discriminated against, and freedom of the press revolves around media and speech-related rights. Therefore, it is the substantive due process that is primarily violated in this scenario involving religious assembly.