|
Planned Parenthood President
Gloria Feldt Applauds Senate Effort Affirming Roe v. Wade
Vows Vigorous
Opposition to Historic Abortion Ban
September 17,
2003
Washington,
D.C.- Planned Parenthood President Gloria Feldt today commended the
overwhelming majority of Senators who voted to put the United States
Senate on record in solid support of women's reproductive rights and
Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that guaranteed women
the right to abortion. Feldt also vowed that the reproductive rights
movement across America and Planned Parenthood would use every means
at their disposal to oppose the underlying measure debated today to
impose the first federal law banning abortion since the landmark
ruling in 1973. Planned Parenthood will seek a federal injunction to
block implementation of the dangerous ban.
"Women across
America who care for the future of reproductive freedom strongly
praise Senator Barbara Boxer's leadership and courage on this historic
vote. She demonstrates the steadfast commitment to the values and
principles embodied in Roe v. Wade and thirty years of
reproductive self-determination for women across our country," said
Feldt.
Today's vote on
the Boxer amendment, which passed by a vote of 93-0, clears the way
for S. 3, the so-called "partial birth abortion ban", to go to
conference with the House of Representatives and then on to the
President for his signature.
"We will oppose
the coming ban on abortion -- in the courts, on the ground, and at the
polls. This reckless ban endangers women's lives and their health, and
deprives them of important constitutionally protected rights. It is
the product of an irresponsible and deceptive campaign by certain
politicians to mislead the American public for base political gain. It
is outrageous to use the health and well being of millions of women
and their families this way. The fight is far from over, and this is a
fight we will win," said President Gloria Feldt.
When S.3, a
bill to outlaw a medical procedure used primarily in emergency
abortions, passed the Senate, it included an amendment authored by
Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Boxer, affirming support for Roe.
Unfortunately, House Republicans stripped the Roe language
before the bill passed the House. Today's vote was on a measure to
disagree with the House action.
Media Contact:
Jim Farrell 202/236-2316
|
