10/21/11: ACLU Tries to Ban Bishops

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The American Civil Liberties Union was in federal court this week arguing that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services must never again contract with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops — unless the religious organization changes its policies that are in keeping with its teachings.

The bishops have contracted with HHS since 2006 in their work with sex trafficking victims. However, the government canceled the contract earlier this month, saying it gives “strong preference” to groups willing to make referrals for abortion.

Even though the contract has already been dropped this year, “the ACLU seeks a judgment to ensure that the catholic organization is never used again by Washington in its work with sex trafficking victims.