The battle isn’t over yet, but this was a major step for the Catholic school.

David G. Savage of the Columbus Dispatch reported.

U.S. Supreme Court backs Notre Dame in Obamacare contraception case

The Supreme Court has revived the University of Notre Dame’s effort to shield itself from an Obama administration policy that ensures that a full range of contraceptives are provided to all female employees, including those who work for religious schools and colleges.

In a one-line order on Monday, the justices granted Notre Dame’s appeal and told the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago to take another look at the university’s claim that any involvement in the contraceptive policy violates its right to the free exercise of religion.

The administration says Catholic colleges need not provide or pay for the disputed contraceptives, but they must at least notify their insurer or the government so the coverage can be provided separately.

Notre Dame told the justices it would be “complicit in sin” if it consented to this arrangement, which would trigger coverage for what it considers “abortion-inducing” contraceptives.

Last year, the court of appeals refused to temporarily shield Notre Dame while the issue was under appeal.

“We’re gratified” by the high court’s action, said Paul J. Browne, vice president for public affairs at Notre Dame. “Notre Dame continues to challenge the federal mandate as an infringement on our fundamental right to the free exercise of our Catholic faith.”