
Peter Stautberg (R)
The rule requires health plans to cover all FDA-approved forms of contraception which include both Plan B and Ella, "emergency contraception" more commonly known as the morning-after pill. There is significant evidence that these drugs can act as abortifacients by preventing a human embryo from implanting in the womb. Ella in particular is similar to the chemical composition of the abortion drug RU-486.
"This federal requirement completely disregards the religious freedoms of faith-based institutions and crosses the boundary between church and state," said Representative Stautberg. "The federal government should not force employers to offer a product that violates their conscience or force religious leaders to act against their own teachings. Today we are sending a message to President Obama and Washington that here in the state of Ohio, we believe that religious freedom is worth defending."
"This mandate from the Obama administration blatantly disregards the personal religious beliefs of many employers," said Senator Peggy Lehner. "We wish to express the Ohio Senate's objection to this blatant overreach."
"Protecting human life is at the top of my personal duty list. Forcing taxpayer money and religious institutions to comply with a misguided policy from the President is something that must be corrected," said Senator Dave Burke.