UPDATE (March 21): USCCB: New proposed rules on mandate still violate religious freedom
The proposed new regulations governing the contraceptive mandate and other portions of the Affordable Care Act are “an unprecedented … violation of religious liberty by the federal government,” said the general counsel of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Anthony R. Picarello, associate general secretary and general counsel, and Michael F. Moses, associate general counsel, cited a series of continuing problems with the new proposal.
The comments March 20 stem from new proposed regulations made public by the Department of Health and Human Services Feb. 1 under the health care reform law which requires most health plans to cover abortion-inducing drugs, contraceptives, sterilization and related education and counseling.
Among the concerns cited by Picarello and Moses: the latest rules require coverage of items and procedures, such as contraception, that do not prevent disease and there is no exemption or accommodation for the vast majority of individual or institutional stakeholders with religious or moral objections to contraceptive coverage.
Other objections to the proposed regulations are detailed in the comments filed on behalf of the USCCB. The deadline for filing comments is April 1.
Earlier, New York Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan said the proposed rules showed movement but fell short of addressing the U.S. bishops’ concerns.
The USCCB issued a press release late this afternoon announcing that comments had been filed with the government.
CNS will have a full report tomorrow.
CNS Blog 
Thank you so much for posting this! It is nearly a yr now since I led the rally for religious liberty one of MN largest cities. Nothing has changed!
Senator Al Franken of MN led opposition to a conscience rights in the Senate with MN Senator Amy Klobuchar in lock step. It would have “fixed” this mandate.
Saturday I provided a MN State Representative with a proposal to constitutionally protect consciences in our state which is currently forcingh all taxpayers fund abortion- over 58,0000 during the past 15 yrs. She called it “a complex issue”.
I urge everyone to talk in thier Churches and with their neighbors. Copy and send on the link to the USCB’s press release. Get out the word any way you can!
To adapt an old saying “one can always tell a liberal snake, but one cannot tell him, her, them much. The good news is we have a new crew to take over in 2016. Bad news it is way too long. Worse scenario, the MSM Looney Tune media will survive until they are no longer bought or subscribed too as their seduced readers and listeners quit paying for their advertised products to keep their stuff flying onto the fan 24/7/ 365.
Though the POPE is today and now.
We must continue the surge the ultra bright revival of the Church through out the Globe for the good of it all.
We must link up in arms and shoulders (education/educated/informed) with the POPE and his infaliable guidance to prevail+++
Solidarity/United As One is Key. &…Is All!
Easier Said Than Done??? ?
As Catholics.+.
The Catholic News Agency has a story today about how Avera, the health care system in South Dakota ran by the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters, sold out our bishops and the Catholic people by deciding to comply with the HHS mandate.
Bishop Swain of Souix Falls has denounced the decision.
Catholics: GET BEHIND OUR BISHOPS!
Yes! Solidarity is Key! & Is ALL.
Thanks Jim.
Could you please provide the web address of this current atrocity..
I’d like to read it my brother.+.
Thanks a bunch.
Your brother in Christ,
JJ
JJ and others: Google “Catholic News Agency” and it will bring you to the article which is displayed just to the right of the rotating pictures of Pope Benedict etc- under “US”. Suggest contacting Avera and letting them know how you feel about this along with other portions of the Benedictine and Presentation orders and letting them know how you feel about this.
Thank you JJ and all !