Speaker Boehner:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Boehner (R-West Chester) spoke on the House floor today in support of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, Pledge to America legislation that codifies the Hyde Amendment and similar policies by permanently applying a ban on taxpayer funding of abortion across all federal programs.
“I rise to express my support for H.R. 3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act. This common-sense, bipartisan legislation codifies the Hyde Amendment and similar policies by permanently applying a ban on taxpayer funding of abortion across all federal programs.
“Last year, we listened to the American people through our America Speaking Out project, and they spoke out on this issue – loudly and clearly. We included it in our Pledge to America, and today we are taking another step toward keeping that commitment and keeping our word.
“A ban on taxpayer funding of abortion is the will of the American people and ought to be the law of the land. But the law, particularly as it is currently enforced, does not reflect the will of the people. This has created additional uncertainty given that Americans are concerned not just about how much we’re spending, but how we’re spending it.
“Enacting this legislation would provide the American people with the assurance that their hard-earned tax dollars will not be used to fund abortions. I commend the leadership of the gentleman from New Jersey, Mr. Smith, and the gentleman from Illinois, Mr. Lipinski. And I urge my colleagues to support the measure.”
Rep. Gibbs:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Bob Gibbs today released the following statement following the passage of H.R. 3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act:
“Today, I voted in favor of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act. I am a proud co-sponsor of this legislation which ends the practice of subsidizing abortions with tax dollars from so many Ohioans who do not regard it as an appropriate function of government.
“H.R. 3 replaces the patchwork of federal laws that restrict federal funding of abortion with a permanent, government-wide prohibition on federal funding of abortion and federal subsidies for health plans that cover abortion.
“While we face a $14 trillion deficit and work to rein in Washington’s spending addiction, we cannot afford to let Washington spend hard-earned taxpayer dollars on abortion. This bill codifies into the tax code what has been our policy for 35 years. A policy that in no way, shape, or form outlaws abortion, just says tax payers dollars will never be used to subsidize abortion.
“I am a strong defender of life and believe it should be protected at every opportunity. This is a victory not only for life, but for the American taxpayer.”
