Bishops say proposed HHS regulations fall short

In response to the new proposal for HHS regulations, the U.S bishops performed an initial review of the document and found the "accommodations" unsatisfactory. According to Cardinal Timothy Dolan, "the administration's proposal maintains its inaccurate distinction among religious ministries," among other problems. In fact, Cardinal Dolan notes that "it seems to take away something that we had previously." Cardinal Dolan released a statement outlining the problems and reiterating the bishops' desire to dialogue with the administration.

From Cardinal Dolan:

For almost a century, the Catholic bishops of the United States have worked hard to support the right of every person to affordable, accessible, comprehensive, life-affirming healthcare. As we continue to do so, our changeless values remain the same. We promote the protection of the dignity of all human life and the innate rights that flow from it, including the right to life from conception to natural death; care for the poorest among us and the undocumented; the right of the Church to define itself, its ministries, and its ministers; and freedom of conscience.

Last Friday, the Administration issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding the HHS mandate that requires coverage for sterilization and contraception, including drugs that may cause abortions. The Administration indicates that it has heard some previously expressed concerns and that it is open to dialogue. With release of the NPRM, the Administration seeks to offer a response to serious matters which have been raised throughout the past year. We look forward to engaging with the Administration, and all branches and levels of government, to continue to address serious issues that remain. Our efforts will require additional, careful study. Only in this way can we best assure that healthcare for every woman, man and child is achieved without harm to our first, most cherished freedom.

Read entire statement at USCCB.