News Summary: Hobby Lobby appeals health ruling
News Summary: Retailer appeals ruling, seeks exemption from health law, cites religious belief
BACK TO COURT: Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. is asking a federal appeals court for an exemption from part of the federal health care law that requires it to offer employees health coverage that includes access to the morning-after pill.
THE DETAILS: The arts-and-crafts chain argues that businesses — not just religious groups — should be allowed to seek exception from that part of the health law if it violates their religious beliefs.
THE BACKTROUND: Lower courts have rejected Hobby Lobby's claim, saying that for-profit businesses aren't covered by an exemption for religious organizations. That exemption applies to churches themselves, but not to affiliated nonprofit corporations, like hospitals.
