On February 1, 2013, the Federal Government issued proposed rules that may finally end the contraception controversy and its challenge to the Affordable Care Act’s commitment to preventative services, including addressing requirements relating to all FDA-approved contraceptive methods, sterilization procedures, and patient education and counseling for all women with reproductive ability.
The proposed rules lower the bar for employers engaged in secular and religious purposes, as well as those religious employers who hire outside the fold. The latest version acquiesces to eligible organizations opposed to contraceptive coverage, finally offering absolution from the requirements of Section 2713 of the Public Health Service Act, Section 715(a)(1) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act and Section 9815(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code. In essence, the proposed rules let these employers practice what they preach. … Read more →