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NCJW hails court decision voiding Trump administration’s discriminatory “Conscience Rule”

November 6, 2019, Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today hails the decision from the US District Court for the Southern District of New York striking down the Trump administration’s final “refusal of care” rule undermining access to health care and critical patient protections. NCJW Chief Policy Officer Jody Rabhan released the following statement:

“Every single person deserves fair treatment and access to health care free from discrimination, judgment, or political interference. National Council of Jewish Women applauds the court’s decision striking down the “refusal of care” rule, which would have allowed the personal beliefs of health care entities and providers to override patient care, jeopardizing public health and lives. Granting entire institutions and individual providers the rights of conscience that should be left to patients is an affront to the Jewish traditions of pursuing justice for all and safeguarding individual religious liberty. As Jews, we believe that everyone — regardless of their gender identity, race, creed, or any other factors — must be treated with dignity and respect when accessing health care.

“The proper role of government is to guarantee fair treatment and to protect the freedom of conscience for all patients. We will continue to fight dangerous, unlawful, and discriminatory policies in the courts, in Congress, in the White House, and through the regulatory process.”

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and Twitter at @NCJW.