Feds Finalize Rules On Equal Treatment Of Faith-Based & Secular Organizations For Government-Funded Social Service Contracts

A newly finalized federal rule equalizes contract requirements for faith-based and secular provider organizations with federal contracts to deliver social services. Starting January 19, 2021, the rule removes current requirements on faith-based organizations that are not imposed on secular organizations with government-funded social service contracts through nine federal agencies. Specifically, faith-based organizations will no longer be required to give consumers written notice of their religious freedom rights, and faith-based organizations will not need to refer consumers to alternate provider organizations if the consumer objects to the faith-based organization. Additionally, the final rule expands an . . .