Archbishop Lori and Cardinal O'Malley's Letter to the U.S. Senate to protect religious freedom (2014)

Archbishop William E. Lori and Cardinal Sean O'Malley's Letter to the U.S. Senate in opposition to the "Protect Women's Health From Corporate Interference Act of 2014"

"Though cast as a response to the Supreme Court’s narrow decision in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, the bill ranges far beyond that decision, potentially attacking all existing federal protections of conscience and religious freedom regarding health coverage mandates.

As a broad, interfaith coalition of religious leaders recently explained: “Congress has never passed legislation with the specific purpose of reducing Americans’ religious freedom.  It should not consider doing so now.” This bill will:

• Curtail the Religious Freedom and Restoration Act, despite claims to the contrary
• Apply to other federal conscience protections, not just RFRA
• Apply to all present and future coverage mandates, not just contraception
• Apply to all employers, not just closely held for-profits
• Further encourages employers to drop coverage

In short, the bill does not befit a nation committed to religious liberty.  Indeed, if it were to pass, it would call that commitment into question.  Nor does it show a genuine commitment to expanded health coverage, as it would pressure many Americans of faith to stop providing or purchasing health coverage altogether.  We oppose the bill and urge you to reject it."

07-14-14-S-2578-Cardinal-O-Malley-Archbishop-Lori-to-Senate.pdf