Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act

# Defense of Conscience in Health Care Act - Summary **What It Does:** This bill would require the Department of Health and Human Services to reinstate a 2019 rule that protects health care workers' rights to refuse performing certain medical procedures based on their religious or moral beliefs. The rule would apply to hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities that receive federal funding. It would prevent the government from requiring these providers to participate in procedures they object to on conscience grounds—such as abortion or certain reproductive services—and would establish penalties for organizations that violate these protections. **Who It Affects:** The bill would impact health care workers (doctors, nurses, and other medical staff) who have religious or moral objections to certain treatments, as well as health care institutions receiving federal Medicare, Medicaid, or other government funding.

It could also affect patients seeking these services, depending on how broadly protections are applied in their local health care facilities. **Current Status & Background:** The bill is currently in committee and has not been voted on. The 2019 rule it references was blocked by federal courts, which found problems with how it was implemented. Supporters argue the bill protects workers' religious freedom, while critics have expressed concerns it could limit patient access to legal medical services.