Written by Don Byrd
Arizona’s Senate has passed a freedom of conscience measure in response to the contraception coverage controversy. The debate centered on whether such extensive protections were necessary, and whether they would create unintended protections.
Sen. Steve Yarbrough, R-Chandler, said SB1365 is necessary to ensure that the First Amendment rights of religious freedom are protected at all levels. He said that has to include the ability of those whose professions are regulated by the state to be guided by their beliefs without fearing they will have their licenses revoked.
…
But Sen. David Lujan, D-Phoenix, said the wording of the measure is too broad. He argued that would leave authorities powerless to revoke the state certification of police officers in the polygamous community of Colorado City even if they ignore reports of child abuse.
SB 1365 passed 21-9. The text reads, in part:
A. GOVERNMENT SHALL NOT DENY, REVOKE OR SUSPEND A PERSON’S PROFESSIONAL OR OCCUPATIONAL LICENSE, CERTIFICATE OR REGISTRATION FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING AND THE FOLLOWING ARE NOT UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT:
1. DECLINING TO PROVIDE OR DECLINING TO FACILITATE OR PARTICIPATE IN PROVIDING ANY SERVICE THAT VIOLATES THE PERSON’S SINCERELY HELD RELIGIOUS BELIEFS EXCEPT PERFORMING THE DUTIES OF A PEACE OFFICER.
Meanwhile, Greg Sargent reports for the Washington Post on the status of a U.S. Senate bill that would “allow employers and insurers to deny coverage for health care services they deem morally objectionable.” The Blunt Amendment is scheduled to come up for a vote Thursday. Stay tuned.
