Hyde Amendment: A Catholic Call to Action

The Hyde Amendment was passed in 1976 by the US House of Representatives.  As part of the federal government’s annual appropriations legislation, it prohibits federal funding of domestic abortions, except in cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother. For the past 45 years, this bipartisan provision has enjoyed overwhelming public support.

The Hyde Amendment saves the lives of mothers and children.  Research shows that that the Hyde Amendment has saved over 2.4 million children since its adoption.  By reducing abortion, mother’s lives are also saved as it eliminates the complications that can follow abortion. 

The Hyde Amendment respects the consciences of the American people.  The majority of Americans oppose the use of their taxpayer dollars for abortion.  Many are opposed for reasons of moral convictions or religious belief.  The Hyde Amendment does not interfere with the state legislatures or the people of each state deciding whether or not to use state funding for abortions.  In fact, most states have decided to follow the amendment’s policy, sometimes by direct vote of the populace.  The elimination of the Hyde Amendment could force every state to include elective abortions as part of their Medicaid benefits.  Without the Hyde Amendment protection, if they do not comply with the funding of abortions, they could risk being prevented from participating in the Medicaid program itself.

Threats to the Hyde Amendment.  Some powerful members of the US Congress want to take away the Hyde Amendment to force taxpayer dollars to pay for abortions especially for disadvantaged women.  Taxpayer dollars would be far better spent by supporting women in crisis pregnancies and struggling mothers so that no mother would be pressured into procuring an abortion.

In an effort to maintain the Hyde Amendment, it is critically important for Catholics at this time to reach out to their legislators to strongly support this important protection for the lives of unborn children and their mothers.  

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has created a video explaining how the Hyde Amendment prevents taxpayers from funding abortions.

You can make a difference! Spread the words through your own social media channels, encouraging your friends and followers to sign the petition stating that taxpayer dollars should not support abortions.