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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Under the Guise of “Religious Liberty,” Trump Deals Another Devastating Blow to Vulnerable Patients

May 24, 2019, Washington, DC – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) today denounced the Trump administration’s proposed rule decimating Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, the Health Care Rights Law. NCJW CEO Nancy K. Kaufman released the following statement:

“For over 125 years, the National Council of Jewish Women has worked tirelessly to secure equal rights and opportunities for all people and to eliminate all forms of discrimination. Since day one, the Trump administration has done just the opposite, reintroducing discrimination in all spheres — including health care— and turning back the clock on our basic human rights.

“The new proposed rule targets the very patients’ Section 1557 was designed to protect. This critical provision prohibits discrimination in health care based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, and sex; importantly, the law’s protections extend to pregnancy, termination of a pregnancy, sex stereotyping, and gender identity, shielding women and LGBTQ patients who are more likely to experience discrimination and to be refused necessary health care. Instead, Trump’s proposal will permit health insurers, hospitals, clinics, and any other covered entities to deny patients care because they have had an abortion because they are transgender, or because they have a disability. This plainly unconscionable rule cannot take effect.

“Every single person’s health is paramount and unassailable. Enabling the personal beliefs and prejudices of health entities and providers to override patient care and preferences jeopardizes public health and countless lives. Discrimination simply has no place in the health care setting, where all patients are entitled to fair treatment and respect. The Trump administration’s coordinated and sustained attacks women’s health, youth health, immigrant health, LGBTQ health, the health of communities of color, and the health of those struggling to make ends meet will not stand.”

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 on Twitter at @NCJW.