Illinois dioceses join birth control challenge

Catholic dioceses in Springfield and Joliet and their charity groups are among 43 plaintiffs in a dozen lawsuits that challenge the Obama administration mandate that most employers provide birth control coverage in insurance coverage for their employees.

The two Illinois dioceses and the Catholic Charities groups in Joliet and Springfield filed their lawsuit Monday in federal court in Chicago. Other lawsuits were filed around the country Monday.

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield said in a statement that the requirement infringes on the right of people to practice their religion without government interference.

Houses of worship are exempt but religiously affiliated charities are not.

An offer by President Obama offered to allow insurers to pay for birth control instead of religious groups has not satisfied Catholic bishops.