WASHINGTON -- The House abruptly postponed debate Wednesday on White House-backed legislation giving religious charities an expanded role in federal social service programs, responding to pressure from critics who argued the measure would pre-empt state and local anti-discrimination laws.
The Republican leadership offered no formal explanation for the delay. But the discrimination issue reportedly was the topic of lively debate at a closed-door weekly meeting of the Republican rank-and-file.
In addition, several officials said the leadership was worried critics would prevail when they forced a vote on pre-empting state and local laws relating to employment discrimination. If so, supporters of the measure said they feared the coalition of religious groups supporting passage would begin to unravel.
Civil rights and gay rights groups said they feared the measure would permit church-based groups receiving federal funds to discriminate against gays and lesbians.
Rep. Mark Foley, R-Fla., and other Republicans said earlier in the week they hoped to amend the bill to make it clear that state and local laws apply.
The bill allows religious charities to compete for government grants in an expanded list of federal programs, including housing, domestic violence and hunger relief. Recipients of aid could not be required to attend worship services or religious instruction.
In addition, groups would be permitted to make hiring decisions based on religion, without regard to state or local laws on the subject, a provision that critics say could lead to discrimination against gays and others.