Opponents of the proposal are concerned that the government would replace professional counselors with prayer and Bible study. President Bush has long advocated the power of prayer to help individuals with alcohol and other drug addiction.

"The president wants to fund untested, unproven programs that seek to pray away addiction," said the Rev. Barry Lynn, executive director of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State. "People with addiction problems need medical help, not Sunday school."

Bush believes that religious-based groups can sometimes accomplish what secular programs cannot. "Our nation must recognize that if we can change a heart, we're more than likely to change someone's habits and addiction on drugs and alcohol," Bush said.

The proposal would relax regulations that have prevented the government from funding religious groups. People seeking treatment would be given vouchers they could use at a program of their choice, including those that are religious-based.

People who work in traditional treatment programs are concerned about who might receive the funding. They fear that programs that evade state health and safety laws, including rules requiring licensed counselors, would be eligible for federal money.

See also: Bush Proposes $600-Million Treatment Voucher Program