Written by Don ByrdIn Oregon, more parents citing religious reasons are opting out of vaccinations for their kndergarten-aged children than in any other state in the U.S. The state senate, concerned that non-medical exemptions have become too common, has responded by passing a law that would require parents to be made aware of the medical benefits of vaccination. The purpose of the regulation is to encourage vaccination thorough awareness. But many are concerned that the result is to stifle religious liberty.
Written by Don ByrdA florist who has been sued by Washington State’s Attorney General over her refusal to provide services to a same-sex marriage has returned legal fire. Barronnelle Stutzman filed suit against the AG in response, alleging a violation of First Amendment rights.
Written by Don ByrdA bill making its way through the Michigan legislature would provide broad conscience exemptions from paying for or providing health-related services for those with a religious objection. The measure is in part, of course, a response to federal health care legislation requiring insurers to provide contraception. The “Religious Liberty and Moral Conscience Protection Act” would go much further, however.
Written by Don ByrdOn Monday, Representative Diane Black (R-TN) introduced the Health Care Conscience Rights Act of 2013, H.R. 940. This bill would amend the Affordable Care Act to exempt all employers and organizations from the contraception mandate if they have a religious or moral objection. The Tennessean reports conservative Tony Perkins, the head of the Family Research Council, believes the bill should be attached to other legislation for leverage.
