S.1756 - Conscience Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Conscience Protection Act of 2025 aims to amend the Public Health Service Act to protect healthcare entities that decline to participate in abortions. It seeks to prevent discrimination against healthcare providers based on their refusal to provide, refer for, or pay for abortions. The bill also aims to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of existing federal conscience laws.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this act would provide legal recourse for healthcare entities and individuals who feel their conscience rights have been violated regarding abortion-related services. It could lead to changes in healthcare practices and coverage, particularly in states with mandates requiring abortion coverage. The bill could also impact the distribution of federal funds to non-compliant entities.
Potential Benefits
- Strengthens religious freedom and moral convictions for healthcare providers.
- Provides legal recourse for those discriminated against for refusing to participate in abortions.
- Reinforces existing federal conscience laws.
- Could lead to greater diversity in healthcare options, reflecting different moral viewpoints.
- May protect healthcare professionals from being forced to act against their beliefs.
Potential Disadvantages
- May reduce access to abortion services, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
- Could create conflicts between patients' rights to healthcare and providers' conscience rights.
- May lead to discrimination against individuals seeking abortion-related care.
- Could result in legal challenges and increased healthcare costs.
- May disproportionately affect women and marginalized communities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is complex. Proponents argue it reinforces the First Amendment's guarantee of religious freedom. Opponents contend it could infringe upon the rights to privacy and equal protection, potentially raising concerns under the Fourteenth Amendment. The Supreme Court's interpretation of these rights in the context of healthcare remains a key factor.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).