ND (AP) Bismarck – Over 9,000 Catholic employers are exempt from federal regulations mandating accommodations for workers requesting abortions and fertility treatments, according to a recent ruling by a federal judge in North Dakota.
The Catholic Benefits Association and the Parish of Bismarck filed a lawsuit last year contesting the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) regulations regarding the Pregnant Workers’ Equity Act. This law requires employers to offer reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and childbirth-related needs. The EEOC interpreted the act as inclusive of abortion and fertility treatments, which Catholic organizations claimed infringed upon their religious liberties.
Moreover, the Catholic group disputed another EEOC guideline updated last year, which specified that government agencies cannot discriminate based on gender identity or discussions surrounding abortion.
On Tuesday, US District Judge Daniel Trainer decided to issue a permanent injunction prohibiting the EEOC from enforcing both the Final Rules of the Pregnant Workers’ Equality Act and the harassment guidelines affecting Catholic employers.
Judge Trainer, appointed by President Trump in 2020, remarked last year about the “period of instability for individuals with religious beliefs in America,” suggesting we are in a post-Christian era.
The Workers’ Equality Act in Pregnancy Initially Enjoyed Bipartisan Support
The Pregnant Workers’ Equity Act was passed in December 2022 with substantial bipartisan support and received backing from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. The controversy arose when the EEOC adopted a broad interpretation of conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth, mandating accommodations for abortion, fertility treatment, and birth control. While the regulations allow exemptions for religious employers, decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis.
In prior court filings, the association and parish argued, “The EEOC’s declaration effectively mandates the use of inaccurate pronouns, which would compel our members to act against their Catholic faith in regards to issues like employee abortion and immoral fertility treatment.”
As a judicial candidate for the Senate Judiciary Committee, Trainor previously served as a board member of the North Dakota Catholic Conference. He addressed this in a questionnaire. In March 2024, he blocked the enforcement of federal laws requiring Christian employers to provide insurance coverage for gender transition surgery, counseling, and other related care.
Those Involved in the Lawsuit Express Gratitude for Religious Freedom
Attorney Martin Nussbaum stated his client is “extremely thankful to the federal judiciary for recognizing the right to religious freedom” in cases pertaining to the association and previous cases.
Nussbaum added, “We are witnessing new practices from various federal entities, alongside initiatives in certain states that are not only enforcing immoral mandates but also imposing speech codes that contradict Catholic values. These codes exceed the issue of pronouns and even extend to defining what constitutes Catholic teaching. We truly appreciate this court for safeguarding the freedom of speech of Catholic organizations.”
Bishop David D. Kagan of Bismarck remarked, “The courts have upheld our right to religious freedom, which is all we ever sought.”
Legal advocacy groups advocating for balance in the implementation of the Pregnant Workers’ Equity Act condemned the ruling.
“This ruling reflects a broader trend of attacks on women’s rights and reproductive freedom. The fact that millions of Catholics and Christians support common medical practices underscores the extremity of this situation,” stated Inimai Chettiar, representing the organization Better Balance.
Supporters of the Pregnant Workers’ Equity Act Suggest the Ruling Creates Confusion
Chettiar noted that the ruling would “create further confusion regarding the enforcement of the law, which aims to address gaps and provide clarity for both pregnant workers and employers.” She emphasized that the entire law remains operational for most workers.
In an interview, she expressed interest in whether the Department of Justice would pursue legal action.
The EEOC declined to comment, having previously requested the judge to deny a permanent injunction, with the opposing side arguing they lacked support for their claims.
Under Trump’s administration, the EEOC’s priorities shifted significantly. In January, two Democratic members of the agency were dismissed, and newly appointed Republican chair Andrea Lucas indicated intentions to initiate a committee vote to revise the rules surrounding the Pregnant Workers’ Equity Act and update harassment guidelines.
The Catholic Benefits Association represents over 9,000 Catholic employers, with approximately 164,000 employees enrolled in its health plan, according to its website.
Source: apnews.com