Americans United for Life filed an amicus brief in an Illinois appellate court today, in the case of Morr-Fitz, Inc. v. Pat Quinn, defending the fundamental First Amendment right of conscience. At issue in the case is an Administrative Rule, originally issued in 2005 by then-Governor Rod Blagojevich, which requires pharmacists - regardless of religious or conscience beliefs - to dispense life-ending 'emergency contraception.'
AUL's brief demonstrates that the Rule unconstitutionally forces pharmacists and pharmacies to violate their religious beliefs. This case is brought in the midst of the current controversy over the Obama Administration's healthcare law that refuses to protect the conscience rights of Americans who do not want to pay for abortions or drugs that induce abortions.
Dr. Charmaine Yoest, CEO and President of Americans United for Life, stated, "This Rule forces Illinois citizens to violate their consciences and religious convictions as they attempt to earn a living and support their families. It forces pro-life pharmacists and pharmacies to advance an abortion-driven agenda in violation of their First Amendment conscience freedoms."
In the brief, AUL is representing national medical organizations including the American Association of Pro Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Christian Medical & Dental Associations, Catholic Medical Association, Physicians for Life, and National Association of Prolife Nurses.
Source: Americans United for Life
