Ft Wayne Times

Rep. Jim Banks (IN-03) introduced the Conscience Protection Act, aimed at safeguarding health care providers from being compelled to participate in induced abortions or similar procedures that conflict with their sincerely held beliefs. The proposed legislation seeks to prevent any federal, state, or local government from penalizing or discriminating against a health care entity that chooses not to facilitate, perform, refer, pay for, participate in, or provide abortion services or coverage. Additionally, it grants a civil right of action to those whose conscience rights are violated.

In January 2024, the Biden administration rescinded and replaced President Trump’s 2019 Conscience Rule, which had expanded the conscience rights of health care providers and other individuals. Rep. Banks emphasized the need for congressional action to protect Americans who have religious or moral objections to participating in abortion procedures.

"Forcing someone to choose between their career or their conscience is un-American and should be illegal," said Rep. Jim Banks. "My bill ensures health care providers that value the sanctity of life will not be punished for their deeply held beliefs."

Senator Lankford (R-OK) introduced a Senate companion bill earlier this month. Rep. Banks’s legislation has garnered support from 36 original cosponsors.

The bill is backed by several organizations including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists, US Conference of Catholic Bishops, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, Alliance Defending Freedom, National Right to Life Committee, EPPC’s HHS Accountability Project, Heritage Action, CatholicVote, Americans United for Life, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee, Family Policy Alliance, and March for Life.