Tuesday, February 19, 2013
OKLAHOMA CITY–In a joint statement released today, Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and Representative Gus Blackwell, R – Goodwell, announced the passage of House Joint Resolution (HJR) 1020 through committee, the first step in the legislative process to becoming a state question. The joint resolution proposes to amend the Oklahoma Constitution to prevent any employer from being forced to offer health insurance that violates their religious convictions.
“In a continued effort to uphold religious freedom in our state and as an unwavering opponent of the Affordable Care Act and the health insurance requirements it would enforce, this is another step in the right direction to stand up to the federal government and fight for religious liberty,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak.
The proposal, authored by Rep. Blackwell, would amend the Oklahoma Constitution to add a new Section 38 to Article II. The amendment would prohibit any person from being forced to purchase insurance that violates their religious convictions or any employer from being forced to offer insurance that violates their religious convictions. HJR 1020 is receiving support from businesses and organizations statewide.
“I’m authoring this resolution because I am an ardent supporter of religious freedom and the Affordable Health Care Act is in direct violation of that freedom,” Rep. Blackwell said. “Passing this state question is one of the best things Oklahoma can do to support our Constitution’s 1st Amendment rights.”
A joint resolution requires approval by both the House and the Senate after passing committee before being adopted as a state question on the election ballot.
About the Oklahoma Insurance Department
The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.
###
For more information contact:
Kelly Collins
(405) 522-0683
kelly.collins@oid.ok.gov