Dear friends,

A bill was recently introduced in the House of Representatives that would prohibit federal funds from being used to cover any part of the costs of any health plan that includes coverage of abortion services. This bill is coming up for a vote this week in the House, and we need your help to ensure that it does not pass.

Stand with the American Humanist Association and urge your Representative to oppose the Protect Life Act right now.

The Protect Life Act (H.R. 358) was introduced in the House by Representative Joseph Pitts (R-PA) on January 19^th. Currently, federal funds cannot be used for abortion services and plans receiving federal funds must keep federal funds segregated from any funds for abortion services. However, this bill would effectively eliminate comprehensive insurance coverage that also includes coverage for abortion in the new health care market. Contrary to existing law, the bill would also allow hospitals to refuse to provide life-saving abortion care for women. Current federal law requires hospitals to provide appropriate medical care to a patient facing an emergency, including medically necessary abortions. This bill would allow a hospital to turn away a pregnant woman experiencing a life-threatening complication without further regard for her health or well-being.

Please take a moment to contact your Representatives and ask them to oppose the Protect Life Act. The American Humanist Association supports the right of women to make their own decisions regarding their own body, and opposes any government intervention that would remove that autonomy or threaten the life of a patient.

This bill is a momentous step backwards in regards to personal freedom and patient’s rights. I’m asking you, as a supporter of humanism to make a difference and take action right now.

Roy Speckhardt

Executive Director