Carney Applauds Executive Order Ensuring No Federal Funding For Abortion

Press Release

Congressman Chris Carney (PA-10) today applauded the president's agreement to sign an Executive Order ensuring that the health insurance reform legislation continues the longstanding ban on federal funding for abortion. Congressman Carney played a central role in helping to broker the agreement between the White House and pro-life members of the Democratic caucus.

The two-page Executive Order strongly enhances the life provisions of the legislation by setting a comprehensive, government-wide set of policies and procedures to ensure that federal funds are not used for abortion services. Included is the following language: "The Act maintains current Hyde Amendment restrictions governing abortion policy and extends those restrictions to the newly-created health insurance exchanges."

"As a Roman Catholic father of five, I believe it is important to reach consensus on the fact that this legislation would continue the longstanding ban on federal funding for abortion. This agreement ensures that," Congressman Carney said. "For three decades, the Hyde Amendment has restricted public funding for abortion. This Executive Order puts to rest any fears that the health insurance reform bill would direct federal dollars toward abortion services."

Congressman Carney was among several lawmakers who met with White House officials late Saturday and early Sunday to help structure the agreement. The president will sign the Executive Order after signing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act into law.

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