WASHINGTON (July 14, 2003) -- Gail Quinn, Executive Director of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, applauded the introduction of the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act (ANDA) in the U.S. Senate today.

"This modest bill protects health care providers who choose not to get involved in the destruction of innocent human life," Ms. Quinn said.

"As pro-abortion groups attempt to abolish conscience rights, the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act is an important re-affirmation of those rights," she added.

Introduced by Senators Judd Gregg (R-NH) and Ben Nelson (D-NE) and six others as S. 1397, the bill clarifies an existing legal protection for health care providers who choose not to participate in abortions. The bill makes clear that the full range of health care entities, including hospitals and individual health care providers, are protected by federal law.

"We are encouraged by ANDA's bipartisan support and hopeful that Congress will act swiftly to pass this bill," said Ms. Quinn.

The measure passed the House in the 107th Congress "with the support of 192 Republicans and 37 Democrats" but was not considered in the Senate.

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