Public Policy

Sielicki reports on a coalition seeking a referendum to repeal recently enacted Massachusetts abortion legislation. She describes the petition effort and the coalition's objections to the law's treatment of later abortion.

Root criticizes Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey's support for expanded abortion access and contrasts it with her public identification as Catholic. He argues that bishops should consider formal ecclesiastical discipline rather than limit their response to public statements.

Ferguson responds to changes in Massachusetts abortion law by arguing that human dignity must include children in the womb. He combines legal and medical claims with a Christian case for protecting unborn life and supporting pregnant women.

Van Maren condemns the signing of Massachusetts legislation that he characterizes as removing remaining limits on later abortion. The essay uses graphic language and moral argument to criticize the celebration surrounding the bill.

Lawler criticizes the response of Massachusetts Catholic leaders to state abortion policy and political pressure. He argues that weak institutional resistance leaves unborn children and pro-life principles without an effective public defense.