US judge blocks Trump anti-contraception measure

Ruling represents setback for president, who said all businesses could refuse to provide free birth control means to employees for religious or moral reasons

Illustrative photo of birth control pills (Public domain)
Illustrative photo of birth control pills (Public domain)

WASHINGTON — A federal judge from Pennsylvania Friday blocked a decision by the Trump administration to put an end to an obligation under Obamacare that employers include free contraception in their healthcare coverage.

Judge Wendy Beetlestone, convinced that the measure could pose harm to thousands of American women, imposed a temporary suspension of the measure that is national in scope and represents a setback for President Donald Trump.

In October, his administration declared that all businesses could refuse to provide free contraception to employees for religious or moral reasons. Previously, such an exemption only applied to religious institutions.

The decision drew strong criticism from Democrats, women’s rights and family planning organizations and obstetricians and gynecologists.

It is likely the US government will file an appeal in response to the injunction.

Most Popular
read more:
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.