U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), along with Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.), has introduced the Lifting Local Communities Act. The bill aims to ensure that religious organizations are eligible for federal funding for social service programs on the same basis as private, nonreligious organizations.
Senator Tim Scott stated, “Faith-based organizations play a vital role in serving vulnerable families and communities in South Carolina and across our nation. These organizations helping Americans in need should not face unnecessary barriers or discrimination because of their beliefs. The Lifting Local Communities Act provides clarity and fairness, ensuring faith-based organizations can continue meeting critical needs and strengthening communities without compromising their mission.”
Senator Rick Scott added, “Across the nation, religious organizations play a vital role in serving our communities for a helping hand, comfort, and guidance when families need it most. My Lifting Local Communities Act will ensure religious organizations that provide social services for families aren’t discriminated against in receiving federal funding, and allow them access to the same federal dollars as non-religious nonprofits. This bill makes a simple change that allows federal dollars intended to support families in need are directed exactly where it is needed – whether that’s a nonreligious nonprofit or faith-based organization.”
Reverend Ryan Duerk, CEO of Miracle Hill Ministries, commented on the challenges faced by faith-based groups: “Faith-based organizations today provide compassionate, holistic care to vulnerable populations through preventative, wraparound, and long-term stabilizing services. These organizations help reduce dependence on emergency healthcare, crisis intervention, shelters, and even the criminal justice system. Yet, these organizations often face unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles when seeking federal resources simply because of their deeply held religious beliefs. The Lifting Local Communities Act ensures faith-based providers can continue their vital work without having to compromise on their beliefs or navigate discriminatory obstacles. Outcomes will improve and every community can access the full array of care providers devoted to restoring dignity, fostering resilience, and contributing to human flourishing.”
Randy Page, Executive Vice President of Palmetto Family Alliance said: “No matter where you look—faith-based organizations are helping those who need it most. Whether it’s disaster relief, women’s shelters, children’s homes or medical clinics, faith-based organizations have historically and quietly filled needs for many Americans. I’m thankful for Senator Scott’s leadership in promoting the LIFTING Local Communities Act that will protect faith-based ministries who receive federal funds in exercising their beliefs as they fulfill their biblical mission in helping serve others.”
Karriem Edwards, President of South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families stated: “We applaud the Lifting Local Communities Act for ensuring faith-based providers can access federal funding fairly by protecting them from bias. Often the provider of last resort, this support enables them to deliver vital social services to the most vulnerable populations who might otherwise be unserved.”
The full text of the bill is available online.
