This rule will implement executive branch policy that, consistent with constitutional church-state parameters, faith-based organizations compete on an equal footing with other organizations for Federal funding, and participate on an equal footing with other organizations in federally funded activities. This rulemaking will also implement the provisions of Executive Order 13559, "Fundamental Principles and Policymaking Criteria for Partnerships with Faith-Based and Other Neighborhood Organizations." This rulemaking is intended to ensure that the Department's programs are implemented in a manner consistent with the requirements of the First Amendment to the Constitution as well as with other requirements.