U.S. Religious Freedom Ambassador to Visit China

Written by Don Byrd
Earlier this week, Religious Freedom Ambassador-at-Large Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook discussed the role of religion in foreign policy in a conversation between top State Department officials and NGO leaders. Among other issues that came up – the State Department’s yearly religious freedom report, the role of faith communities in promoting foreign policy issues – Dr. Cook revealed that she will be traveling to China soon.

Will Missouri Be Next to Undo Constitutional Protections?

Written by Don Byrd
While Florida ponders a constitutional amendment that would remove restrictions on government aid to religious institutions, Missouri seems poised to be next in line. A resolution introduced last week would put the matter before voters.

Utah Supports LDS Church’s Right to Advocate

Written by Don Byrd
The State of Utah is asking a federal judge to throw out a complaint by the Utah Hospitality Association that the Church of Latter-Day States improperly influenced recently enacted state liquor laws.

HHS Says Religious Employers Not Exempt from Contraceptive Requirement

Written by Don Byrd
In a controversial move we are sure to hear more about over the next year, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has clarified a provision in the Affordable Care Act that is being watched closely by many religious institutions. The legislation requires health insurance policies to cover contraception for women. In a decision announced by the Administration yesterday, religious institutions will not be exempt from the requirement to provide such coverage to employees, though they will receive an additional year to comply with the rule.