EVERETT, Wash. — The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that closely held companies can refuse to pay for health insurance that includes birth control if it violates their religious faith.
The 5-4 decision places restricts on requirements of the Affordable Care Act.
An Everett company, Electric Mirror, joined national craft retailer Hobby Lobby in arguing for the right to refuse to pay for some contraceptives they believe cause abortions.
It’s a personal issue for Aaron Mischel and his brother Jim, who are co-owners of the company.
It has 300 workers and is growing.
Aaron was adopted into the Mischel family as a baby when his 14-year-old mother was persuaded not to abort him.
“We've been a pro-life family for all these years, we're a pro-life company,” said Jim.
“I'd never really gone public with my story,” Aaron said, the emotion growing in his voice. “It does hit home. This means a lot to my family, everybody here, you know, 'Where's my choice where's that baby's choice?' I want everyone to have a choice, we wanted that choice and you know what, today we won.”
But the director of NARAL Pro-Choice Washington believes women lost.
“We believe in an individual’s religious liberty, of course, but we also don't believe in discrimination against women,” said Rachel Berkson
“Asked why owners should decide, Aaron said, “Because we're the ones that pay the bills, we're the ones that write the checks.”
KIRO
