The Lifting Local Communities Act would require federal agencies, states, and local governments to treat religious organizations equally with nonreligious organizations when awarding federal funds for social services programs. Religious organizations could apply for and receive federal grants and contracts on the same basis as secular nonprofits without facing discrimination based on their religious character or beliefs. The bill explicitly allows religious organizations receiving federal funds to maintain religious symbols in their facilities, hire staff based on religious adherence, and continue operating according to their religious mission, while also permitting these organizations to keep their existing religious exemptions under employment, housing, and education law. The legislation covers a wide range of federally funded social services—including child care, job training, food assistance, homeless services, and substance abuse treatment—and allows beneficiaries who object to receiving services from a religious provider to receive referrals to alternative providers with similar value. The bill creates a private right of action allowing religious organizations to sue for violations and preempts any state or local laws that conflict with its provisions. No specific funding or timeline for implementation is included in the legislation.
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