BACKGROUND (from USCCB.org)
The HHS has issued a rule forcing nearly all private health plans to include coverage for all FDA-approved prescription contraceptive drugs and devices, as well as surgical sterilization. These are listed among "preventive services for women" that all health plans will have to cover without co-pays or other cost-sharing -- regardless of whether the insurer, the employer or other plan sponsor, or even the woman herself objects to such coverage.
More than 400 Catholic leaders have called on Congress and the Administration to protect conscience rights in health care. The open letter appeared as a full page ad featuring over 150 of those leaders in the New York Times and the Washington Post on December 21.
Go to the USCCB resource site on the HHS Mandate >
Watch Bishop Rhoades' Press Conference >
Read the Bishop's letter to all parishioners >
Preventative Services Background Information >
FAQs about the HHS Mandate >
ACTION (from USCCB.org)
Contact your U.S. Representative by e-mail, phone, or FAX letter:
INCLUDE THIS MESSAGE (from USCCB.org)
Please co-sponsor the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act (H.R. 1179, S. 1467) and help enact it into law. The Obama administration’s decision to require even religious institutions to provide coverage of sterilization and contraceptives, including drugs that can cause an abortion, makes passage of this measure especially urgent. Please ensure that the rights of conscience of all participants in our nation’s health care system are respected.