Washington D.C., Feb 10, 2012 / 13:04 pm
The U.S. bishops are hesitant to predict the effects of an ambiguous new policy announced by the Obama administration on its controversial contraception mandate.
“While there may be an openness to respond to some of our concerns, we reserve judgment on the details until we have them,” said Cardinal-designate Timothy M. Dolan of New York, president of U.S. bishops’ conference.
He noted the “remarkable unity” with which Americans have united in recent weeks to fight “the erosion of religious freedom and governmental intrusion into issues of faith and morals” and called for continued efforts to ensure that religious liberty is protected.
On Feb. 10, President Barack Obama announced a new policy that requires many religious employers to contract with health insurance companies that provide contraception free of charge.