Legislature OKs
St. Francis bonds bill
Lawmakers approved $85 million in special-purpose revenue bonds for the St. Francis Healthcare System yesterday over the objections of some House members who criticized the hospital's policy against providing emergency contraception.
The bill passed the Senate 24-0 but was opposed by 13 of the House's 51 members.
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St. Francis, which is operated by the Roman Catholic Church, does not provide birth control or abortion services. The policy "is very hard to tolerate," said Rep. Hermina Morita (D, Hanalei-Kapaa), one of 11 Democrats who voted against the measure.
The revenue bonds would be used for construction and improvement projects and to purchase equipment for the system's two medical centers on Oahu and satellite clinics on Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.
Supporters noted that in some rural areas, the St. Francis facilities are the only option for health care, and they need the state's help to improve the quality of care.
"Think of all the people that's living life because of these SPRBs (bonds)," said Rep. Michael Kahikina (D, Kalaeloa-Nanakuli).
The bill now goes to Gov. Linda Lingle, who can sign it, veto it or let it become law without her signature.
St. Francis' policy on contraception has been an issue in the past. Last year, after the Legislature approved a measure that would have required hospitals to provide emergency contraception for rape victims, St. Francis officials said they would consider challenging the mandate in court.
Lingle vetoed the bill, saying lawmakers should have considered an exemption for religious hospitals.
