Monday, January 25, 2016

Stand Up for Life

Sen. Deb Fischer 

Each year, January 22 marks the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s 1973 decision in the case of Roe v. Wade. Over four decades later, thousands of Americans gather annually in Washington, D.C., to join the March for Life. This peaceful rally in our nation’s capital draws attention to pro-life, pro-women policies. It also reinforces the fact that all life, at every stage, is sacred.
Many Nebraskans traveled over 1,000 miles to Washington in the face of a historic blizzard to attend the March for Life. They took a strong stand for what they believe in. In fact, several buses of Nebraskans were stranded for days last week as they returned home, and I was relieved to see them arrive safely in Nebraska. These young men and women are powerful witnesses to the country on the importance of this issue. But bringing attention to the March for Life does not end in Washington. There are also ways to rally for life here at home. On Saturday, January 30, I will join our citizens for the annual Nebraska Walk for Life in Lincoln. If you are in town, I hope you will consider joining us at the Capitol.
Throughout my time in public service, I have been committed to supporting common-sense, pro-life measures that offer compassion for women and unborn children. Too many women experience despair, pain, and judgment from others during an unplanned pregnancy. We should offer assistance for these expectant mothers, and they need to know that we will continue to support them in the challenging years ahead.
Over time, views on this divisive issue have evolved toward the side of pro-life policies. A recent Marist poll found that the majority of Americans support restrictions on abortions.
In the U.S. Senate, I am a cosponsor of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. This bill prohibits abortions after 20 weeks, which is the point at which science tells us unborn children are capable of feeling pain. I supported this reasonable policy when it passed by a vote of 44 to 5 in the Nebraska Unicameral. It should now be adopted at the federal level.
Just last year, Americans were shocked and deeply disturbed by the horrible revelations about Planned Parenthood. This organization’s callous role in the harvesting of baby body parts was alarming and potentially illegal. Planned Parenthood receives over half a billion dollars in federal funding each year, and it is abhorrent to think your tax dollars are being used in such a way.
In response to these revelations, I joined Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa and several of our colleagues to introduce a bill that would completely defund this scandal-plagued organization. Our legislation would redirect taxpayer dollars to state and local health departments, community health centers, and hospitals that provide comprehensive women’s health-care services. These services include, but are not limited to: diagnostic laboratory and radiology services; well-child care; prenatal and postnatal care; immunizations; and cervical and breast cancer screenings.
Here in Nebraska, there are six federally-qualified health centers and 36 clinic sites that serve over 64,000 people. From Omaha to the panhandle, these centers provide the care women and men need. Ultimately, our legislation would provide federal funding for these programs that support women’s health.
Several committees in the House of Representatives are taking action. In the Senate, the Judiciary Committee and the Finance Committee have launched their own investigations into Planned Parenthood.
All life is precious. Nebraskans who take part in pro-life events this year to raise awareness for this issue should be commended.
Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.

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