New York bishops urge governor to veto emergency contraception bill

Published: 2005-07-14

WASHINGTON (CNS) -- The heads of New York's eight Catholic dioceses have appealed to Gov. George Pataki to veto a bill that would allow pharmacists and nurses to dispense emergency contraceptives without a physician's prescription. In a letter dated July 6 and released to the press July 12, the bishops said the bill was "both morally offensive and inappropriate health policy." The measure was passed by both houses of the New York Legislature by June 22. Once it has been delivered to the governor, he has 10 days to take action. The state assembly must deliver the bill to him before the end of the first week of August. The "morning-after pill" is designed to be taken orally within 72 hours after intercourse.

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