Any minute now, the Department of Health and Human Services is expected to put into effect a rule that would defend "provider conscience" over women's right to politically neutral healthcare. But just when you thought the fire-breathing HHS was ready to consume the damsel's access to basic reproductive healthcare, dragon-slaying Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Patty Murray have appeared sword bill in hand. On Thursday, they introduced legislation that would block the regulation from being enacted. Clinton had the following to say:
In the final days of his administration, the President is again putting ideology first and attempting to roll back health care protections for women and families. The fact that the EEOC [Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] was never consulted in the drafting of this rule further illustrates that this is purely a political ploy. This HHS rule will threaten patients’ rights, stand in the way of health care professionals, and restrict access to critical health care services for those who need them most. Senator Murray and I are standing up once again to the administration against this rule and will continue to fight for women’s reproductive rights. President Bush is making a last-minute attempt to undermine women’s health care, but our legislation will stop this rule and ensure that women can continue to get needed health care.
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