Thursday, June 27, 2013
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak is applauding a decision by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals that reverses a district court’s refusal to grant a preliminary injunction sought by Hobby Lobby. The Oklahoma-based company is fighting a mandate to cover the “morning-after pill” and similar drugs and devices in its company health plan.
“The goal here is to protect religious freedom and my support for this cause has been strong all along,” said Doak. “In recognition of this notable win for Hobby Lobby and our state in the fight for religious freedom, I applaud the 10th Circuit in their ruling and look forward to continued federal decisions to uphold and protect our freedom.”
Hobby Lobby filed suit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in September 2012, arguing that the contraception mandate violates its religious beliefs. Hobby Lobby’s lawsuit will now return to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma.
“Federal government requiring actions that go against religious beliefs is a blatant violation and should not be tolerated,” continued Doak. “We will continue to support this challenge and unite with the citizens in our state in resistance of an intrusive government.”
More than 30 businesses in several states, including Hobby Lobby and sister store Mardel, have challenged the contraception mandate. Oklahoma is among seven states involved in a lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Nebraska challenging the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act mandate.
About the Oklahoma Insurance Department
The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.
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For more information contact:
Kelly Collins
(405) 522-0683