Faith-based Issues

Grassroots lobbying

Grassroots lobbying is an issue which is of particular interest to board based groups active in any type of policy based communications with large numbers of people. The 110th Congress was to emphasis Congressional ethics but unfortunately instead of considering legislation aimed at the conduct of members of Congress, Federal Officials, and their staffs, most legislation is dealing with limiting grassroots lobbying efforts. Principle in this fight is HR 2093, to amend the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 to provide for additional reporting by lobbying firms. Specifically, to increase the disclosure requirements of organization which communicate with the general public to lobby congress. While, Congressman Bartlett supports legislation which will achieve true ethics reform, he does not support moves to limit citizens’ free speech or right to petition government.

Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives
On January 29^th, 2001, the President signed an Executive Order establishing the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. The goal was to allow access of federal funds to faith-based and non-profit groups that provide social services in America’s communities. It also created offices within the Departments of Justice, Labor, HUD, HHS and Education to ensure cooperation between the public and private sector.

There has been some concern federal funding for these programs would violate the First Amendment. This argument is simply unfounded. Allowing non-profit groups to serve their communities by providing a needed social service does not interfere with the so-called “separation of church and state.” In fact, no denomination is favored, and no government money is used for proselytizing. Further, as former Chief Justice Rehnquist declared, we must “frankly and explicitly abandon” the notion that there is a “wall” that forbids the government from helping religious groups pay their operational costs. Faith-based organizations are driven by their compassion for humanity to aid those in need, and many individuals have already benefited from the work of these selfless and loving organizations. Our government should eagerly assist these organizations in their efforts.

Faith Based Links*

White House Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Center for Faith-Based & Community Initiatives

U.S. Department of Justice Task Force for Faith Based and Community Initiatives