Catholic, other organizations object to new federal regulation on unaccompanied minors

February 27, 2015

The general counsel of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, joined by attorneys for Catholic Relief Services, the National Association of Evangelicals, World Relief, and World Vision, has sent a letter to the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement objecting to a new “interim final rule” on the care of unaccompanied minors.

The attorneys’ letter noted that the rule requires “grantees, contractors, subgrantees and subcontractors” to offer victims of sexual abuse who are minors “timely, unimpeded access to … emergency contraception,” as well as “timely access to all lawful pregnancy-related medical services”-- apparently including abortion.

The attorneys expressed concern that no exception was granted for religious or moral objections and stated that the regulation is in apparent violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

“We believe that, through practical discussions, we can find a resolution that allows the government to fulfill its obligation to care for unaccompanied children, while also respecting the religious and moral beliefs of faith-based organizations that, to date, have provided such critical care for this vulnerable population,” the letter concluded.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Catholic And Evangelical Humanitarian Agencies Voice Concern Over Impact Of Rule Regarding Unaccompanied Children (USCCB)
• Full text of letter (USCCB)