Following last week’s introduction of The Women’s Health Accountability Act, her legislation designed to halt funding which is currently allocated to Planned Parenthood, and redirect that funding to health centers, Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.) released a statement to reiterate the importance of the bill.
“For years, Planned Parenthood has received federal funding under the notion of providing a variety of women’s health services,” Ellmers said. “However, recent revelations and videos have raised serious doubt in the minds of Americans and left many questioning what women’s health services they actually offer. This is where the Women’s Health Accountability Act will play an important role.”
In essence, the Women’s Health Accountability Act would immediately restrict funding to Planned Parenthood and its affiliates, by requiring that any federal funds given to Planned Parenthood under title X of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA) must instead be provided to health centers throughout the United States. Title X, a provision originally enacted in 1970, is a federal grant program that develops comprehensive family planning and related health care services for low-income citizens or those who are uninsured.
“This legislation is a way we can continue providing health services for women while also demanding accountability of taxpayer dollars,” Ellmers said. “Upon passage of this legislation, funding for Planned Parenthood would be frozen and would become immediately available to health centers through a grant process. These centers are a better alternative for women’s health care, as they offer primary care and preventative health services such as mammograms and immunizations. Furthermore, they are far more prevalent nationwide and transparent with taxpayer dollars.”
Additionally, Ellmers crafted draft legislation that will strengthen the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003. This discussion draft, which is scheduled to be reviewed at a Health Subcommittee hearing Thursday, Sept. 24, will bolster enforcement against providers who violate this existing law.
“Every human life is worthy of dignity and respect,” Ellmers said. “The conduct displayed and questions raised in recent videos tear at the soul. It is our duty and commitment in Congress to complete our investigation, but in the meantime we must also do everything we can to protect the most innocent lives.”