Catholics Herald Bill to End Harsh Hyde Amendment

Today Congresswomen Barbara Lee, Jan Schakowsky and Diana DeGette led more than 70 cosponsors to introduce the Equal Access to Abortion Coverage in Health Insurance Act (EACH Woman Act) that would ensure that every woman in the United States can have access to health coverage for abortion services, no matter where she lives, how she receives coverage or what she has in her wallet.

“The EACH Woman Act would lift the harsh Hyde Amendment, which bans the use of federal funds for abortion services except in cases where a woman’s life is in danger and other limited exemptions,” said Jon O’Brien, president of Catholics for Choice. “It would eliminate the insurmountable obstacles for women with limited resources and allow them to follow their conscience when it comes to whether and when to have children.

“As a Catholic, my social justice tradition calls me to speak up for the conscience rights of all people—particularly the poorest and most vulnerable members of our society. In fact, the majority of American Catholic voters believe insurance—whether public or private—should cover abortion services in certain cases.

“I am thankful to the policymakers who are doing the right thing and making sure women can access the healthcare they need—and deserve. I call on members of Congress to support the EACH Woman Act and policies that show compassion for women and families.”

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