Denied: Women's Health

An Outrage. While we’re pleased that the health care reform bill  finally passed in the U.S. House of Representatives last night, women’s health took a giant step backwards at the same time. An amendment by Rep. Stupak to the health care bill  eliminates access to abortion in the so called “public option” health plan AND in subsidized private insurance plans. If this amendment stands, women would lose access to the services they have today. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree voted against the amendment, while Congressman Michael Michaud voted for it. Read a statement by Cecile Richards of Planned Parenthood here. The bottom line? Women must not be second-class citizens in the new health care system. Please e-mail Congressman Michaud here to express your disappointment, and send Congresswoman Pingree a note of thanks.

Now, the debate moves to the Senate. Stay tuned….