Monday, February 11, 2013

Yes, why didn't I think of that?

In a New York Times editorial today, Bill Keller asks a provocative question. He's writing about the controversy over ObamaCare's inclusion of birth control as a requirement for corporations' policies for their workers -- and the exemption that Catholic and some evangelical Christian employers are demanding.

It's all very well to grant exceptions to church institutions themselves, writes Keller.  But where do you draw the line in letting individuals be exempt from laws based on religious beliefs?

He cites the example:   suppose a Jehovah's Witness employer demanded not to be required to pay for insurance that covered blood tranfusions for his employees?   Their religion opposes them as a doctrinal matter.

Or what about an employer who is a Christian Scientist?   They like to avoid medical treatments per se.  And why do I have to pay taxes to support wars that I oppose?

There's no end, when you start making exceptions.

Ralph

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