The ERLC affirms that every human life is endowed by God with immeasurable dignity. Scripture illustrates the truth that every man, woman, and child is created in the image of God. We believe His knowledge of each person’s life precedes the creative act of conception.
Abortion is not healthcare. If human dignity is given to each person when created in the womb, then abortion is not only an assault on the image of God but also irreparable harm on a vulnerable life. We believe abortion denies precious human lives both personhood and protection, and therefore cannot be considered as healthcare.
The federal government should not use taxpayer dollars to pay for abortions. Americans are divided over the issue of abortion, and many strongly object to their taxpayer dollars being used for what they believe to be a great moral wrong. The Medicare for All Act of 2019 would remove critical Hyde Amendment protections. For over forty years, the Hyde Amendment passed each Congress and prevented taxpayer dollars from funding abortions.
Medical professionals with conscience objections to performing abortions must be protected. The Medicare for All Act of 2019 would eliminate these foundational Constitutional protections. If a medical professional refused to perform an abortion, their employment could be at risk with the only medical provider left in the country—the state.
The Medicare for All Act of 2019 would also codify sexual orientation and gender identity in federal law. This legislation would require medical professionals to provide puberty blockers, transitioning hormones, and gender reassignment surgery even against their best medical judgement. This is harmful and unethical, especially in pediatric care.
The ERLC urges Congress not to adopt the Medicare for All Act of 2019. The legislation presents a grave threat to decades of conscience protection laws that ensured equal protection for millions of Americans, especially the most vulnerable. As ERLC president Russell Moore often notes, “A government that can pave over the consciences of some can steamroll over dissent everywhere.”
