Children are entitled to necessary medical treatment, and parents’ religious belief is never an excuse for denying such treatment to a child in need. Withholding necessary medical treatment is a crime, and states should not allow exemptions based on religion.

Religious communities that preach faith-healing frequently amass fields of tiny graves as they continue to sacrifice their children in adherence to their superstitious beliefs. This is abhorrent and unacceptable.

The FFRF Action Fund supports repealing all faith-based exemptions to medical neglect, and also supports federal efforts that would coerce states to repeal such provisions.