Following the announcement of a new rule from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services dramatically expanding the ability of healthcare institutions and workers to refuse to provide medical services if they have religious or moral objection, Katy Joseph, Interfaith Alliance policy and legislative advisor, expressed opposition to the rule in a statement, calling it a gift to the Religious Right:

“The new HHS rule allowing healthcare providers to prioritize their personal faith over patient care creates a legal preference for one set of beliefs over all others, directly undermining the religious freedom of all but a small segment of Americans.

“The Trump Administration’s gift to the Religious Right jeopardizes the wellbeing of patients seeking reproductive healthcare, LGBTQ+ people, and those in need of end-of-life care. The consequences for patients in rural and underserved areas may be disastrous.”

Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.