James M. Talent: “But let me just say that the part of the bill that he is referring to is a provision that simply allows faith-based drug…”

“But let me just say that the part of the bill that he is referring to is a provision that simply allows faith-based drug and alcohol counseling groups to participate in Federal programs in this sense, that a voucher would be given to people who have substance abuse or alcohol problems, and they could, if they wished, use that voucher at a faith-based program if they think that would be more effective and if that fits with their life. This is similar to what we already do with regard to day-care programs, with regard to community service block grants. It is similar to what we did in the welfare reform bill. It simply gives individuals a choice. And the reason is, quite frankly, that these groups are highly effective in stopping drug abuse. They have a 60 to 80 percent cure rate.”