Ohio Catholic college keeps contraception coverage

CINCINNATI (AP) — A Catholic college that drew criticism when it announced plans to halt birth-control insurance coverage is still offering it, the school confirmed today.

Xavier University has continued to offer insurance that covers contraceptives. A spokeswoman said the decision came after the U.S. Supreme Court in June upheld President Barack Obama’s health care legislation.

University President Michael Graham had told school employees in April that without a legal mandate, it was inconsistent for the school to cover drugs and procedures that the church opposes.

He said after the Supreme Court decision that the requirement to offer insurance plans that cover contraceptives is deeply problematic for Catholic universities.

“Religious institutions have never been asked to violate their consciences in this profound a manner,” said Graham, who remains critical of the requirement.