Bishop's Statement on S49/A6260 - the Freedom of Reproductive Choice Act

The Catholic Bishops of New Jersey join to express our strongest opposition to S49/A6260. This harmful legislation would: codify into state law an individual’s right to an abortion, including late-term abortions; potentially violate the religious freedom of healthcare workers and hospitals; and require private businesses to expand group health coverage to include abortion services. We hold all human life sacred, including the unborn, and we strenuously oppose any effort that seeks to make abortion services more accessible - - expressly this effort that is being rushed through the legislative process at the conclusion of this session.

We realize the financial, emotional, and physical toll an unexpected pregnancy can have on a mother. We are sympathetic toward all mothers who feel helpless and alone, which is why the Catholic Church has a long tradition of offering alternatives to abortion. Through Catholic agencies, charities, parishes, and other organizations, mothers seeking abortion alternatives can access life-affirming health and prenatal care, emotional support, assistance in bearing and raising her child, and basic needs such as housing, food, and clothing.

Abortion is a direct attack on life itself. As such, the Catholic Bishops of New Jersey urge Catholics and people of good will to reject this bill seeking to expand abortion services and to contact your state legislators to express your staunch opposition to its passage.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.
Most Reverend Kevin J. Sweeney
Most Reverend David M. O’Connell, C.M.
Most Reverend James F. Checchio
Most Reverend Dennis J. Sullivan
Most Reverend Kurt Burnette
Most Reverend Yousif Habash

January 7, 2022