Fleming Supports First Amendment Rights for Residents of the District of Columbia

Press Release

Congressman John Fleming, M.D. released the following statement after voting to pass H. J. Res. 43 to disapprove the Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act (RHNDA). The District of Columbia bill would prevent pro-life advocacy groups, faith-based employers, and religiously affiliated or political organizations in D.C. from making personnel and hiring decisions consistent with each institution's mission. RHNDA could also force these entities to pay for abortion coverage.

"RHNDA blatantly violates the First Amendment rights for residents in the District of Columbia. The underlying D.C. Council measure discriminates against mission driven organizations located in the Nation's Capitol, impinging on the freedoms of speech, association, and religion for advocacy groups--particularly religious and pro-life affiliates--our neighbors right here in the District of Columbia."

Background: The U.S. Constitution grants Congress oversight for the seat of government, and the Home Rule Act of 1973 provides for a Congressional review period and the ability to disapprove of any legislative matter passed by the D.C. Council, signed by the Mayor and presented to Congress.

Source