Supreme Court Debates Lawsuit Against White House's Faith-Based Initiative

Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Wisconsin-based foundation, filed a taxpayer lawsuit against the Bush administration’s funding of faith-based initiatives.  Freedom From Religion Foundation is claiming that conferences sponsored under the funding program favor religious groups. The government defended this program, claiming the plaintiffs did not have standing, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit said the foundation could continue with its law suit.

This case is an important test for a 39-year-old precedent that has treated First Amendment establishment-clause cases differently when it comes to standing as and for the faith-based initiative as well.

In other cases, taxpayers can’t challenge government programs in court solely on the grounds that their tax dollars are not being used the way an individual. In order To prevent trivial lawsuits, the high court has required plaintiffs to show more direct injury or larger stakes, such as a violation of cartin rights or a denial of rightful benefits.

There is no ruling as of yet.