Hobby Lobby

It’s hard to say whether Hobby Lobby is becoming more famous or infamous as a result of the recent contraceptive decision. In addition, the political argument has been twisted in many interesting ways in the media.

Although some media outlets report that Hobby Lobby will not cover contraception for it’s employees, the methods of contraception targeted were Plan B (also called the “morning after pills) and “certain types of intra-unterine devices (“IUDs”) as these companies believe that these contraceptives induce abortions by preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.” The counter argument is whether an organization should be allowed to refuse to cover certain standards of medical coverage from its employees and act as an individual with respect to exercising its religion.

The ultimate court decision was in favor of Hobby Lobby. Going forward, this does not affect the majority of employers. However, “closely held, for-profit corporations can qualify for an exemption from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) requirements mandating contraceptive coverage for employees. The exemption is only available if the mandate imposes a substantial burden on the corporation’s ability to “conduct business in accordance with their religious beliefs”.”