Dear friends,

Last week Congressman Chris Smith (R – N.J.) introduced the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act (H.R. 3), a bill which would severely limit abortion access to those relying solely on government healthcare.  Currently, federal law restrictions on government funded abortions include exemptions for rape, incest, and instances in which the mother’s life is in danger. H.R. 3 seeks to restrict its rape exemption to “forcible rape” only. 

This vague language not only disregards instances of statutory rape and rape involving drugs, alcohol, and hindered mental capacity, but calls into question the definition of “forcible rape.” Forcible rape, which isn’t defined in the federal criminal code, nor by the bill’s authors, is also undefined by many states, leaving the question of what “forcible rape” is, and what circumstances, if any, qualify. 

If enacted, H.R. 3 would also financially target private insurance companies offering abortion coverage, and introduce new taxes for individuals and businesses that purchase insurance policies offering coverage as well.     

These restrictions would leave tens of thousands of women across the United States unable to access the assistance they require. The American Humanist Association is committed to protecting the rights of women, as well as keeping medical care accessible. Please take a moment to contact your Representative and tell him or her to oppose H.R. 3 today.

Sincerely,

Roy Speckhardt

Executive Director