Provider Protections Set for Abortion Refusals; Critics Call Rules Vague

Beginning of article

Byline: Sean Lengell, THE WASHINGTON TIMES

The Bush administration has issued new protections to health care providers who refuse to perform abortions and other procedures because of religious or moral objections.

But critics say the new regulation is vague and cumbersome and would lead to patients being denied needed services and medication, including birth control, HIV testing and treatment, and mental health services.

The new provider conscience regulations are designed to strengthen existing federal laws that prohibit institutions from discriminating against individuals who refuse to participate in abortions or provide a referral for one. The …