The Future of Federal Faith-Based Initiatives

Professor Carl Esbeck, Missouri Law School, and Chris Anders, ACLU senior legislative counsel, discuss the history and constitutionality of the federal faith-based initiative office, as well as the various particular issues raised by the implementation of its programs, including whether religious organizations who receive federal funds can discriminate in their hiring on a religious basis. Begun by President Bush, President Obama has vowed to continue the initiative, albeit with certain changes. What may those changes mean for federal faith-based initiatives, constitutionally and practically? Sponsored by the Duke Law Christian Legal Society, The Federalist Society, Duke Law Democrats, Duke ACLU, and the Program in Public Law.

Recorded on March 23, 2009.

Appearing: Speakers: Carl Esbeck and Chris Anders.