Contraceptive Coverage/Preventive Services

Contraceptive Refusal Policies

Recognizing select, longstanding theological objections to contraception, churches and other houses of worship remain exempt from the insurance coverage requirement. Additionally, the administration issued an “accommodation” designed to ensure employees of religiously affiliated non-profits with similar objections could access contraceptive coverage without forcing those employers to bear the cost or otherwise have any connection with the coverage. 

Despite the administration’s balanced approach providing exemptions and accommodations, conservative opponents at the federal level have tried passing legislation to dismantle the requirement, and ideologically driven for-profit and non-profit organizations have mounted legal challenges citing moral or religious objections. Legislative efforts spearheaded initially by Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Joe Manchin (D-WV), and Roy Blunt (R-MO) have thus far been unsuccessful. However, in November 2013, the US Supreme Court announced that it will hear two of these legal challenges, Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. and Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. v. Sebelius. Oral arguments are expected to be heard in the spring of 2014.  

NFPRHA's Work

As legislative challenges to the coverage requirement arise and are considered by Congress, NFPRHA aggressively advocates to ensure that the contraceptive coverage requirement remains in place and that all women maintain access.

Resources

Other Resources

National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association

1025 Vermont Ave. NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202-293-3114  |  info@nfprha.org

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