Main Sponsors: Sen. Thad Altman (R-Melbourne), Rep. Scott Plakon (R-Longwood) and Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando),

Title: Religious Freedom

What It Would Do: Would repeal the Florida Constitution’s prohibition on state funding of religious organizations

Background: Proponents say that Amendment 8 is about the “continued delivery of non-sectarian social services by religious groups.” Opponents, however, believe the main purpose of the GOP-backed amendment is to knock out a barrier to school voucher programs.

Proponents: Former Republican Rep. Juan Zapata, through a group called Citizens for Religious Freedom and Non-Discrimination; Florida Family Action; Florida Catholic Conference; Diocese of Venice; Florida Chamber of Commerce. Legislation placing the amendment on the ballot passed the House and Senate largely along party lines.

Opponents: ACLU of Florida; Americans United for the Separation of Church and State; Anti-Defamation League; Florida Education Association; Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida

Budget Impact: Private religious institutions could benefit from receiving more public funds

» See all of Florida's 2012 Amendments here.