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Obama Administration Decision on Contraceptive Coverage Is A Significant Step Forward in Creating A More Just and Compassionate Society; Unnecessary Exemption for Religious Organizations Should Be Removed

Statement of Reverend Dr. Carlton W. Veazey, President and CEO

August 1, 2011

The Obama Administration’s decision to expand insurance coverage for contraception is a significant step forward in creating a more just and compassionate society, in which fostering the health of women and children is a basic commitment. The decision, issued today by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), directs new health plans under the health reform law to cover Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved contraceptives without burdening women with out-of- pocket fees.

This is a historic decision, removing a significant barrier to women - particularly women who are disadvantaged by low-income or lack of access to health care - having the means to make decisions about having and timing children. Reducing cost barriers to contraception will greatly benefit women who might otherwise not be able to access these critical services. The ability to plan pregnancies is so important that RCRC considers it a moral value. Diverse religions recognize that family planning helps to build strong families, protect the health of women and children, reduce child and spousal abuse, and prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce the need for abortion.

However, we are troubled by the interim final rule, part of today's decision, that makes it possible for “religious employers” to opt out of contraceptive coverage. Such an exemption was not required by the Affordable Care Act and could potentially inhibit the access of some women to the contraceptive services and supplies on which they rely to prevent unintended pregnancy.

As a coalition of religious organizations and individuals, we support religious exemptions for individuals and bona fide religious institutions such as churches that have a moral or religious opposition to providing abortion services as long as the patient is referred to an alternate provider in a timely fashion. Institutions that receive public funds and provide services to the public, without regard for religion, are not religious entities and should not be treated as such. While we respect the diversity of religious beliefs on human reproduction in this country, in this case government is clearly bowing to the wishes of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, which opposes contraception despite its widespread use by Catholic women. This interim rule is unnecessary, could be harmful, and will be a further erosion of the conscience rights of all Americans unless it is stopped. We urge individuals and organizations to join RCRC and other organizations in protesting this rule.