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Supreme Court Rules Some Employers Exempt from Covering Contraception on Religious Grounds


June 30, 2014 | WMFE, Orlando - The Supreme Court ruled today that some corporations can hold religious objections that will allow them to opt out of a health law requirement to cover contraceptives for women.

The Supreme Court says that closely-held corporations like Hobby Lobby don’t have to provide birth control coverage if it violates the religious beliefs of the owners.

Jenna Tosh, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Greater Orlando, says the ruling is a step backwards for women’s rights.

“We hope that most businesses do the right thing and let women make their own healthcare decisions," says Tosh. "And we urge Congress to act and protect women’s access to birth control, regardless of the personal views of their employer.” 

In a statement posted on the company’s case website, Hobby Lobby co-founder Barbara Green says:

“The Court’s decision is a victory, not just for our family business, but for all who seek to live out their faith.”

Nearly 50 businesses have sued over the contraceptive requirement.