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Executive orders could make faith groups forgo federal contracts

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama’s executive orders barring federal contractors from discriminating against gay and transgender employees will still allow religious contractors to only employ people of their own faith, but some critics view that exemption as inadequate.

Peter Sprigg of the Family Research Council says there could be challenges brought by people who say, “I’m a member of your church but I’m changing my gender identity” or “I’m engaged in a committed homosexual relationship.”

The executive orders would appear to bar religious federal contractors from requiring employees to abide by their church’s moral teachings.

Sprigg believes some religious charities will now steer clear of federal contracts, separating needy people from effective service providers.

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