LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

HHS compromise? Don’t be deceived

Posted

TO THE EDITOR:

Although I was initially pleased to hear the Obama administration had worked out a compromise-accommodation on its requirements for religious institutions on health care I soon realized this was not the case. That it was nothing more than a scam to fool the American public it’s another smoke and mirrors ploy.

Think about it; Religious institutions are exempt but their insurers have to provide free coverage. The truth of the matter is many religious organizations are self-insured and those that are not will most assuredly see their provider pass the cost on to the consumer.

The so-called accommodation is nothing more than a deceitful attempt to infringe on the First Amendment.

While there is no doubt contraception, abortion, and women’s rights are important to us all, regardless of an individual’s religion or choice; it is for the most part, a matter of conscience. And try as we may, morality cannot effectively be legislated or dictated. It’s been tried before with less than positive results. What has evolved is a more divisive nation and that is truly a travesty.

The primary concern with this mandate is its deliberate challenge to the Constitution. The fact that an administration would attempt to mandate the Catholic Church, Christians and any denomination having similar thinking adhere to a civil policy that directly contradicts the beliefs of a religion comes across as arrogant, insensitive, and dictatorial. It is a blatant attempt to undermine the teachings of the church and this is an unpardonable affront to all.

To make religion a political focus is callous and I strongly resent my faith being used as a pawn. Frankly, it makes me wonder what the real agenda is behind this. Surely, had common sense been brought into play it never would have become an issue. The question I would ask is what happened to God and country or is there soon to be a mandate against that as well?

To use an individual’s beliefs as a political tool does in the long term, hurt everyone and that is truly a shameful and irresponsible tactic. The president, his administration, as well as some members of both parties owe this country and particularly the Catholic Church an apology. If you truly believe in the United States Constitution and the First Amendment, the administration, Department of Health and Human Services and Congress must develop a plan that will benefit all without infringing on matters relating to religious autonomy and even more so, one that will respect those you serve – we Americans.

“In God We Trust” – let’s never forget who made this country strong. Without him, we are nothing.

James W Farley

Bristol