Michigan Catholic Conference responded to a lawsuit filed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today attempting to overturn longstanding state law that prohibits abortion in Michigan other than to save the life of the mother.
Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Grand Rapids Most Rev. Robert J. Rose went home to be with the Lord on Ash Wednesday, March 2. He was 92 years old. Bishop Rose was a dear friend to the MCC, having served the Conference both as a Board member and Chair of the MCC Finance Committee during his time in episcopal office in the Diocese of Gaylord and the Diocese of Grand Rapids. “He was a strong supporter of the work and mission of MCC and was passionate about its advocacy for human life, social justice and the common good,” said Paul A. Long, MCC President and CEO.
Since 2003 Michigan Catholic Conference has advocated for the state Earned Income Tax Credit, a tax policy that benefits low-income wage earners and their families through a deduction on state taxes. Providing state support in addition to the credit at the federal level, Michigan workers currently are able to claim six percent of the federal credit on their state taxes. MCC is supporting initiatives in both the legislature and from the governor’s office that would greatly enhance the tax credit on behalf of working families.
Michigan Catholic Conference is applauding a settlement agreement filed in federal court Jan. 25 that allows faith-based adoption and foster care providers to continue to operate according to their religious mission. The settlement agreement between St. Vincent Catholic Charities and the state of Michigan protects conscience rights in the provision of child placement and, as such, helps to ensure religious foster care and adoption agencies will continue to serve Michigan children and families of varying religious, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds.
On January 7, a group of pro-abortion rights organizations announced the formation of a ballot committee to consider a petition drive to enshrine abortion in the state constitution. In response, MCC Policy Advocate Rebecca Mastee said “More than anything, women considering an abortion deserve support, love, and compassion. For decades, abortion has been touted as the only option, harmless and easy, yet we know this is a lie. Abortion hurts women.”