To prohibit forcing an individual or employer who purchase health insurance or pays for health care in some other way, or a health care provider or facility, to pay for or provide any service that that violates the payer’s or provider’s conscience. Specifically, it would establish that no civil, criminal, or administrative liability could be imposed for this exercise of conscience; and would prohibit eligibility discrimination in government grants, contracts, or programs because of this exercise of conscience. The bill was introduced in response to an Obama administration ruling that Catholic and other religious institutions and social service agencies must include coverage for contraception, sterilization and “morning after” pills in any health care benefits they provide to employees.   Official Text and Analysis.

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.