To the Editor:
 
Nancy Ratzan raises important questions and concerns about faith-based funding in a prospective McCain or Obama administration (Obama and McCain are both wrong, July 29, Other Views). But Floridians who cherish religious liberty should be all the more concerned by the unprecedented faith-based funding required under Florida Ballot Proposal 7.

The proposal would be the first constitutionally mandated faith-based initiative in our state and nation. It would require that churches, synagogues and other houses of worship be eligible for virtually all grants and contracts, including social services, with the state.

There would be no restrictions on these funds. This means that Florida taxpayers -- regardless of religion -- would be compelled to fund houses of worship, religious proselytizing and activity and religious discrimination in hiring for taxpayer-funded jobs.

This initiative is unwise and unnecessary. Under current law, Florida successfully has partnered with the Jewish Federation, Catholic Charities and other religiously affiliated organizations to provide essential social services. But these organizations' separate financial structures ensure that taxpayer dollars do not fund religious indoctrination or discrimination.