Whip Clark Calls Out Republican Back-Door Attempts To Advance a National Abortion Ban

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) released the following statement on Republicans' latest attacks on reproductive freedom - yesterday's executive action attempting to undermine the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) and Congressional Republicans' continued efforts to use the budget reconciliation process to enact anti-abortion provisions.

"Every day, Republicans are finding new backdoor tactics to advance a national abortion ban.

"Yesterday, the Trump administration revoked guidance that emphasizes a woman's right - in every state - to receive emergency abortion care. While Trump's actions do not change the law, Republicans are once again sparking confusion and panic for hospitals, providers, and patients.

"This assault on EMTALA follows House Republicans' inclusion of extreme anti-abortion provisions in their Big, Ugly Bill. At the 11th hour, Republicans tacked on a measure barring abortion coverage from ACA Marketplace health plans - a de facto nationwide ban that would impact millions of Americans. The Republican bill would also defund Planned Parenthood, threatening nearly 600 health centers - predominantly in rural, underserved areas - and leaving millions of patients without access to cancer screenings, birth control, prenatal care, postpartum services, and more.

"Republicans lied their way into office. They campaigned on cutting costs and promised they wouldn't advance a national abortion ban. Five months later, they are doing the exact opposite - and it is women and families who will pay the deadly price."

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