I just *knew* there had to be a catch.

[varkam]

When I heard about Bush signing the second chance act, which gives ex-cons access to treatment programs and job training, I knew there had to be some sort of catch. I mean, I was extremely surprised by him signing something that actually helps people into law.

Turns out, there is a catch. Namely - the thwacking of the separation of church and state.

The law allows for churches to apply for federal grants to set up treatment programs, rehab programming, and job training for ex-convicts. It's not that I don't agree with the ends, just the means. There are already many of these programs in place, it's just that they lack funding. Why not pump more money into them, or streamline the process of restoring rights to felons, or push for more programs in prisons? Oh, I know why not - because it's Bush.

[Mojambo]

1. James Madison's first veto as President was a proposal similar to this

He isn't called the father of the Constitution for nothing.

[SalmonChantedEvening]

2. Faith-based profiteering

A hallmark of *'s time in office.

[Richard Steele]

3. There always is, with this band of crooks. *sigh* nm

[pacalo]

4. He's pandering to the religious right-wing.

This type of federal grant should go to the existing community programs, as you said.

[Deja Q]

5. Serial killers always found religion before being strapped to the chair...

Usually people respond 'the guy is faking it so he can get out'.

Besides, shouldn't those of us who don't commit such felonies get ahead too?

[islandmkl]

6. to quote Ray Wylie Hubbard in 'Conversation with the Devil':

"Some get spiritual cause they see the light and some cause they feel the
heat..."