Why It Matters

LifeWise Inc.’s federal lobbying could significantly expand released-time religious instruction across U.S. public schools. The Ohio-based organization has lobbied continuously since September 2023 with exclusive representation from Shumaker Advisors LLC, investing $225,000 to date.

Congress is actively advancing S.Res.426, designating "Religious Education Week" and explicitly affirming the constitutionality of released-time programs. Influential Republicans including Senator Bill Cassidy, Senator Lindsey Graham, and Senator Tim Scott have publicly endorsed religious education.

By the Numbers

LifeWise has invested $225,000 in federal lobbying since September 2023. The organization’s lobbying team consists of four registered lobbyists: Christopher Salemme, a veteran telecommunications lobbyist; Jason Mark Ouimet, who spent 17 years representing the National Rifle Association; Ryan Paul Walker, a former Chief of Staff with 14 years of Capitol Hill experience; and Mike Fedorchak, representing multiple Shumaker clients.

LifeWise’s lobbying team brings substantial congressional access, which directly serves LifeWise’s Ohio base, where the organization will operate in nearly half of school districts this year—a 90% increase since January.

The Agenda

LifeWise Inc. is lobbying on "issues impacting released time religious instruction," focusing on Religion and Education policy areas. The nonprofit advocates for allowing public school students to receive off-campus, privately-funded religious education during the school day.

LifeWise’s advocacy aligns with current congressional momentum, including support for S.Res.426, which affirms the constitutionality of released time programs under the 1952 Supreme Court precedent Zorach v. Clauson.

Broader Context

Congress is actively advancing federal support for religious education. S.Res.426 designates October 5-11, 2025, as "Religious Education Week" and explicitly affirms the constitutionality of released-time religious instruction programs. Multiple Republican senators—including Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), and Tim Scott (R-SC)—have publicly championed religious education.

State legislatures have simultaneously enacted requirements for public schools to accommodate released-time religious instruction—a significant legal shift favoring LifeWise’s mission. No congressional hearings on released-time programs have yet occurred, suggesting potential legislative opportunities ahead.

Between The Lines

The Senate HELP Committee introduced S.Res.426, calling on all 50 states to accommodate students participating in released-time programs. Republican support includes co-sponsors Katie Britt (R-AL) and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL). Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) introduced the GRACE Act to protect religious exemptions in educational settings.

Competitive Landscape

A coalition of faith-based organizations supports religious education initiatives alongside LifeWise, including the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty, Agudath Israel of America, Association of Christian Schools International, and Catholic Education Partners Inc. These groups represent potential allies rather than competitors in advancing religious education policy. The report documents no active opposition lobbying efforts at the federal level.

The Bottom Line

LifeWise operates in a receptive political environment with Republican-backed legislation and strong senatorial support. The organization’s $225,000 investment and experienced lobbying team position it to capitalize on congressional momentum while the absence of documented hearings suggests significant legislative opportunities ahead.

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