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MAY 24, 2001

President Bush's controversial plan to give federal funds to religious groups has been delayed indefinitely by Senate leaders who have also changed the nature of the legislation to implement it.

Bush announced the faith-based initiative in January but has run into widespread opposition from Democrats, constitutional scholars, and some religions groups who say it blurs the wall between church and state. The White House has defended the plan and Bush as recently as Sunday pushed the plan.

But chief sponsor Senator Rick Santorium (R-Penn.) said its not a priority now. And one part of the initiative -- providing new tax deductions for charitable contributions -- has been cut from the Senate's tax bill.

Bush will travel to Cleveland, Ohio, today to push his initiative.

Get the Story:
Bush goes to Ohio to push 'charitable choice' (AP 5/24)
Senate Delays Legislation on Aid to Church Charities (The New York Times 5/24)
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