Cardinal DiNardo statement on Supreme Court ruling on Texas HB2

June 27, 2016

The U.S. Supreme Court issued a 5-3 ruling against Texas HB2, a law which protects women’s safety while seeking a surgical abortion. HB2 also allows emergency care to be available due to the significant and emergent physical complications that may occur from this invasive procedure. I am very concerned that this ruling is putting the lives of women at great risk.

The Church has long been aware that abortion has significant deleterious effects on women. Psychological damage resulting from loss of a child to abortion is a frequent occurrence, having long-term adverse consequences not only for mothers but for entire families. There can be no serious argument that these complications –physical, psychological and spiritual - do not occur.

We as a Church remain dedicated to providing women with options reflecting the true human dignity of both herself and her child and to shepherding those women and men who suffer following abortion. We will continue to work towards the affirmation of each human life in our society and our world.