Illinois Court Expands Catholic Shield From Suicide Law
Nearly every Catholic health institution in Illinois wins temporary protection as conscience claims move forward statewide.
The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois broadened an earlier protective order on October 8, adding additional Catholic plaintiffs to those already shielded from the state’s assisted-suicide law.
The expanded ruling now includes the Catholic Medical Association, the Catholic Psychotherapy Association, and numerous affiliates in the Diocese of Springfield. Bishop Thomas Paprocki of Springfield and Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago are among the original plaintiffs.
The Thomas More Society, which represents the groups, said the order prevents Illinois from forcing religious objectors to participate in assisted suicide while the lawsuit proceeds. The protection is temporary and the plaintiffs seek a permanent injunction.
The decision builds on prior rulings protecting religious sisters and other Catholic entities. It extends conscience safeguards to nearly every Catholic health care institution in Illinois, advancing religious liberty for Catholic providers across the state.