Tag Archives: Health Care Rights of Conscience Act

Don’t Jump Out of The Boat

We recently read a great little sermon illustration in which a young boy asked his father, “Dad, I was watching a TV show about marine biologists. Why do scuba-divers jump backwards into the water?” His father wittily responded, “Because if they jumped forward, they'd still be in the boat!”
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Rights of Conscience on the Operating Table in Springfield

The regular session of the Illinois General Assembly ended on May 31st,  but with lawmakers at an impasse over the state budget, they could be meeting in overtime sessions well into the summer.  Along with debate over a spending plan, workman’s compensation and the public sector pension crisis will keep lawmakers busy in  Springfield for at least several more weeks. According IFI  sources, Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) has told  state representatives that the Illinois House will be meeting every Tuesday throughout the month of June, and even into July.

Lawmakers could use their extra time in the State …

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The Paramount Freedom of Conscience

An important lesson I learned early in my theological training was that I ought never violate my own conscience and I must never put pressure on others to violate theirs.  To do so would be immoral and unethical.  One’s conscience may be incorrect, and it is appropriate to educate it when necessary, but in the mean time, it must not be crossed lest that vital “alarm” be deadened.

With the politicians in Springfield debating whether to require medical professionals who oppose abortion to refer abortion seekers to others who will provide those services we see the government of the State …

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Dr. Pam Smith Talks About SB 1564

On Wednesday morning, the Human Services Committee heard testimony about SB 1564, a bill that would change the Health Care Rights of Conscience Act by forcing doctors, nurses, pharmacists to distribute information to help a patients find objectionable medical services such as abortion, sterilization, and certain end-of-life care.  The bill passed out of committee on a party line vote of 8-4, as expected.  The bill now moves to the Illinois House floor where it could be voted on as early as next week.

It is important to point out that SB 1564 would also negatively affect crisis pregnancy centers …

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