Supreme Court rules for Hobby Lobby in contraception case
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NORTH JACKSON — The U.S. Supreme Court sided with arts and crafts chain Hobby Lobby on Monday, saying some corporations can opt out of paying for birth control if it violates their religious beliefs. This decision comes two years after the Supreme Court declared the Affordable Care Act constitutional. Reaction about the decision in West Tennessee is split, just like the decision from the court. “I thought this morning’s decision was a victory for both life and liberty,” C. Ben Mitchell Ph.D. said Interim Provost at Union University. The section of the Affordable Care Act in dispute, required for-profit companies to offer birth control and other contraceptives to employees for free. Dr. Mitchell says he’s happy these organizations are now exempt but also says the decision is limited. “It’s a somewhat narrow decision,” Dr. Mitchell said. “It’s an important decisions because it’s about freedom and about liberty.” The religious objection comes from companies like Hobby Lobby who feel some contraceptives like the morning after pill are the same as abortion. West Tennesseans have mixed reactions on the ruling. “I am so pleased to hear this,” supporter Judy Duke said. “I think American values need to go back to what this country was originated on.” Cynthia Weaver doesn’t support the ruling. “I think Hobby Lobby needs to be lobbied against,” Weaver said. “People should have the freedom and the ability to make their own choices.” Union University has filed a similar suit in federal court and Dr. Mitchell says Monday’s decision is a big step for them. “This can’t but help our cause before the courts,” Dr. Mitchell said. Overall, Dr. Mitchell says the Affordable Care Act will have to be reworked. “The administration is going to have to rethink it’s design and implementation of the act,” Dr. Mitchell said. Union University filed its lawsuit in the West Tennessee U.S. District Court back in April. More than 100 other faith based institutions have filed similar lawsuits over the past two years. The Obama administration says today’s decision jeopardizes the health of women who are employed by these companies.
