The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee heard arguments Thursday morning on the Obama administration’s rule mandating free contraceptives for those employed at religious institutions. During the hearing, New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney asked the panel, “Where are the women?” The question came following an earlier argument from Rep. Elijah Cummings, a Democrat, who argued that the panel was unfairly “stacked” with people appointed by committee chair Darrel Issa. Democrats argued the panel was occupied by only those who supported Republican ideals including a lack of women representatives who could further speak on the matter.
“I look at this panel, and I don’t one single individual representing the tens of millions of women across the country who want and need insurance coverage for basic preventive health care services, including family planning,” Maloney said.
The hearing, “Lines crossed: Separation of church and state. Has the Obama administration trampled on freedom of religion and freedom of conscience?” sought to conclude whether or not the mandate infringed on religious liberty.
“Religious people determine what violates their consciences — not the federal government,” said Reverend Dr. Matthew Harrison, a panel member among five other men. “Please get the federal government, Mr. Chairman, out of our consciences.”
The other panelists were comprised of the Most Reverend William Lori, moral philosophy professor C. Benn Mitchell, the Reverend Dr. Matthew Harrison, ethics professor Craig Mitchell, and Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, CBS News reported.
The second panel did include two women. According to CBS News, all the panelists oppose the White House rule citing an objection on religious freedom.
Democrats on the panel criticized Issa for failing to include religious leaders and other organizations who have expressed approval for the Obama administration’s decision.
Issa explained he did not allow other speakers beyond those he identified because they were not “appropriate and qualified.” He further criticized Democrats for not being prompt about their witness requests, CBS News reported.
