Justice Department Supports Catholic Nuns Against New York’s Transgender Policies

The Justice Department is siding with Catholic nuns in a dispute with New York over transgender policies. These policies could force the nuns to choose between their religious beliefs and caring for poor cancer patients in their final days.

Conflict Over Transgender Mandate

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon emphasized that states cannot compel Americans to abandon their religious beliefs for gender ideology. The Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne face potential penalties if they refuse to comply with state requirements regarding gender identity, pronouns, room assignments, and access to sex-specific facilities.

Punitive Consequences

Failure to comply with this mandate could result in fines of up to $2,000 per violation, escalating to $5,000. The nuns could face forced compliance through a court order, risk losing their operating license, and potentially serve up to one year in prison, with fines reaching $10,000.

Legal Challenges and Support

On November 30, 2023, New York signed into law the bill that prohibits discrimination in long-term care facilities based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or HIV status. The sisters argue this law could impose harsh penalties despite their record of receiving no complaints from residents, unlike other nursing homes.

The Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne, represented by general counsel Martin Nussbaum of the Catholic Benefits Association, emphasize their long-standing commitment to caring for indigent cancer patients. Nussbaum stated that the Justice Department’s action underlines that religious freedom cannot be overridden by state policy preferences.

Government’s Response

A spokesperson for New York Governor Kathy Hochul dismissed the lawsuit as a political maneuver in an election year. The office claims that the transition to a single fiscal intermediary has saved taxpayers money and upheld legality.

Fox News Digital sought further comment from the Department of Justice.

Reporter Rachel del Guidice covers the intersection of politics, faith, family, and American culture for Fox News.