Update 12:26pm EST – From his brief press conference, Obama attacks “cynical” opponents of abortion mandate. He says “principle” of “access to free preventative care including contraceptive services” will stand.◼ Obama Blinks on Contraception Rule - Mark K. Bruce/ABC
“Religious liberty will be protected.” Translation: You’re still screwed.
Seeking to quell a political uproar over religious liberty and contraception, President Obama announced today that religious-affiliated institutions will not be mandated to cover birth control for their employees after all.◼ Discussion at Lucianne
"Religious organizations won't have to pay for these services and no religious institution will have to provide these services directly," the president announced from the White House briefing room. "Let me repeat: These employers will not have to pay for or provide contraceptive services, but women who work at these institutions will have access to free contraceptive services just like other women."
Insurance companies will instead be directly responsible for providing free contraception and covering the cost.
◼ No, White House Not "Compromising" On Birth Control Mandate - Katie Pavlich/Townhall
