Bill helps faith-based groups get state aid

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The House gave final legislative approval Tuesday to a bill that requires state employees to coordinate with faith-based organizations.

The measure, which cleared the House on a 122-27 vote, orders the Department of Social Services to designate liaisons to work with the faith-based groups to help people in need of state assistance.

House sponsor Rep. Jeff Grisamore said there are many such groups throughout the state that could help make state assistance programs more effective and save money -- including more than 100 faith-based groups that run drug and alcohol treatment programs.

"There is great concern about faith-based organizations' ability to communicate with the Department of Social Services and help those in need," said Grisamore, R-Lee's Summit.

He said designating regional coordinators throughout the state to link the department and the private groups would improve communication and make the coordination easier.

The measure's sponsor, Sen. Rob Mayer, R-Dexter, said earlier this year that he wants to ensure religious groups know they can participate in state programs.

Some Democrats questioned whether the wording barring discrimination could inadvertently prevent the state agency from refusing to work with a religious group that is stealing money, not providing services or has other problems. But supporters said the concern was unfounded.

The Senate passed the bill in late February, so it now goes to Gov. Matt Blunt.