The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) wrote members of Congress yesterday, pleading again for changes in the proposed health care “reform” legislation now ripe for action on both sides of Congress.

The bishops are especially concerned about two key elements of the legislation – the absence of conscience protections for medical professionals, and plans by Pelosi & Co. to grossly expand tax-financing of abortions. Leaders of the American Catholic church expressed “disappointment” that their previous appeals to ban tax-funding of abortions have been rebuffed.

“We sincerely hope that the legislation will not fall short of our criteria,” wrote the bishops. “However, we remain apprehensive when amendments protecting freedom of conscience and ensuring no taxpayer money for abortion are defeated in committee votes.”

Unless changes are made, the USCCB officials promised to vigorously oppose the legislation.Such outright opposition could make a substantial difference to the pending legislative fight – as well as carry great implications for the futures of politicians who enact ObamaCare over the wishes of the American people.