Take Action Now on Health Care Reform Issues

With several committees in both the House and Senate wrapping up their versions of health care insurance reform, the debate now moves to the floor of each body.  It is one of the most critical times in this process, and one in which Catholics and other people of faith can have a significant influence.  In a statement issued this week, Bishop Stephen Blaire of Stockton, President of the California Catholic Conference, reiterated the main concerns of Catholics across the United States. 

• Insure that health care is affordable and accessible to the poor, elderly, legal immigrants and all vulnerable groups
• Uphold the status quo banning the Federal funding of abortions
• Protect the conscience rights of health care providers

None of the current proposals adequately addresses all these issues, but there is still time to influence the legislation.  (Read Bishop Blaire’s full statement.)

The Church has advocated for comprehensive health care reform for three decades.  Such a critical basic right should not continue to be withheld from millions of Americans, but that right cannot be secured by sacrificing the most vulnerable. A proposal in the House which will provide adequate protection for life and conscience – the Stupak amendment – is currently being blocked by House leadership.  At the very least they should allow a debate and vote on this central issue for Catholics and millions of other Americans.
Click on the Image below to take action.