No One Should be Forced to Violate Their Conscience

Press Release

The U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 304, the Conscience Protection Act. Congressman Bill Flores (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding passage of the bill:

"Despite current law, churches and health care entities across the country are being forced to cover or pay for abortions. Nurses and doctors are being forced to violate their conscience and participate in these abortions. With passage of the Conscience Protection Act, Congress is continuing a history of providing bipartisan conscience protections that are consistent with our founding principles and the Constitution. The bill reaffirms the Weldon Amendment, which provides that a state may not punish or discriminate against a health care entity for refusing to participate in, or provide coverage for abortions against their conscience. The bill also provides a private right of action so that individuals who face discrimination can seek legal relief through the courts. No one should be forced to violate their conscience or be threatened with losing their job for refusal to participate in an abortion.

"In 2009, President Obama said, "Let's honor the conscience of those who disagree with abortion.' I agree, and call on the president to sign this bipartisan bill."

Congressman Bill Flores represents the 17th District of Texas and is an entrepreneur, former energy executive, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC) and member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

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