Recently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) ruled that contraceptive services must be covered by most forms of insurance without a co-pay or deductible. Houses of worship are not required to provide birth control in their health coverage. The Obama administration declined the bishops push to exempt religiously affiliated organizations whose primary mission isn’t worship.
Now, the Catholic Church has stepped up their efforts in opposition to the ruling. Newt Gingrich, Republican candidate for President, has also strongly condemned this decision. Across the country, Catholic bishops are urging their parishioners to stand up against the Administration’s directive.
NASW strongly supports the ruling issued by HHS, and supports the right of women to obtain contraceptive services without hindrance from the religious beliefs of their employer or academic institution. We proudly stand behind the right of women everywhere to act in the best interests of their health, their families, and their rights.
