Denver, Colo., Aug 15, 2012 / 04:18 am
A spokesman for a Catholic family-owned business in Colorado is asking President Obama to respect his family's faith after the president reaffirmed his support for the controversial contraception mandate during a recent campaign swing through the state.
"Instead of rewarding political special interests and punishing family businesses, the president should instead be true to the oath he swore to uphold and defend the Constitution and religious freedom," Andy Newland, Vice President of Hercules Industries, told CNA Aug. 13.
"At Hercules we offer generous compensation and benefits to all our employees, including for women's health, pregnancy and wellness. We are only asking that the government not force our family to violate its faith in order to earn a living and create jobs."
Hercules Industries manufactures heating, ventilation and air conditioning units and has locations in several U.S. states. Its owners, William Newland, Paul Newland, James Newland, and Christine Ketterhagen, all identify as practicing Catholics.