Supporting Nondiscrimination Policies in HHS Programs

This Health and Human Services Acquisition Regulation (HHSAR) implements acquisition policies and procedures used across the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The proposed rule, issued on December 24, 2014, contained two provisions we were particularly interested in: (1) The Non-Discrimination in Service Delivery provision, which would protect beneficiaries from discrimination, and (2) The Non-Discrimination for Conscience provision, which would ensure HHS has complete and accurate information about the scope of services a faith-based organization would provide under a federally funded program. These policies would ensure that HHS can meet the goals of its programs and provide beneficiaries with the necessary access to health information and services. In May of 2015, AU submitted comments supporting the nondiscrimination language in HHSAR and refuting assertions that these two clauses would violate religious freedom. These sections will provide appropriate protections for both those seeking services from and those working with HHS. We await issuance of the final rule.

Status: Awaiting final rule

Read the text of the proposed rule.

Comments

Read Americans United's comments to the HHS/ASFR/OGAPA/Division of Acquisition