WMBD/WYZZ TV – SPRINGFIELD -- It's not quite Christmas yet, but the Christmas spirit is already causing controversy in Illinois. A Central Illinois man has been given permission by Secretary of State Jesse White to put up a nativity scene on state property. The man asked for permission to display the scene of Jesus' birth inside the Capitol Rotunda this December.  White gave the okay citing his "open" policy for displays at state buildings. 

But ACLU reps say they won’t stand for it. In fact, the group is threatening to challenge the decision in court.

Unless the decision is overruled by a judge, the nativity scene is scheduled to be on display on the capitol from Dec. 2 through Dec. 22.