Catholic sisters sue New York over LGBTQ+ care law in nursing homes
A group of Catholic nuns has filed a lawsuit challenging a New York law protecting LGBTQ+ rights in nursing homes, arguing it violates their religious beliefs.
The Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne have taken legal action in federal court against state health officials and Kathy Hochul, seeking an exemption from rules requiring care for transgender patients based on their gender identity.
The sisters, who run a nursing facility for terminally ill cancer patients, say they could face fines, loss of licensing, or even jail time if they fail to comply with the law. They argue that certain requirements—such as gender identity recognition and mandatory training on LGBTQ+ care—conflict with their Catholic faith.
Founded in 1901 by Rose Hawthorne Lathrop, the order operates Rosary Hill Home, where they provide palliative care to patients regardless of background.
In a statement, the group said it has always treated patients with dignity but cannot follow the law without compromising its religious principles. The lawsuit claims the policy violates constitutional protections, including religious freedom and equal protection under the law.
New York health authorities have defended the legislation, stating it is designed to protect nursing home residents from discrimination, including based on gender identity.
The case adds to a growing number of legal battles in the United States over the balance between religious liberty and LGBTQ+ rights, with courts increasingly asked to decide where those boundaries lie.
