On August 5, HUD announced that it would amend its existing regulations regarding the equal participation of faith based (religious) organizations in HUD programs.  The amendments are being undertaken to implement Executive Order “(EO) 13559”.  EO 13559 sets forth principles clarifying that religious providers are welcome to compete for Federal funding without loss of their religious identity, and providing protections for program beneficiaries, including a referral process for beneficiaries who object to the religious character of an organization that operates a program with direct Federal funds.  Release.