Lynn C. Woolsey: “family planning saves lives. Whether we are talking about Sonoma County, California, or Somalia, women who have control…”

“family planning saves lives. Whether we are talking about Sonoma County, California, or Somalia, women who have control over their reproductive health are better off, and so are their families. That is why we must repeal the global gag rule. Denying women around the world access to a full range of reproductive choices not only limits their health care options, it leaves women trapped in abusive relationships; held back by a lack of education and financial stability, and unable to care for themselves and their families. That is not acceptable. Today, the Committee on International Relations will take up the measure offered by the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee) to end the global gag rule. I urge my colleagues on the committee and throughout this House to vote ``yes'' on her legislation and vote ``yes'' for women's rights around the world. Make no mistake, Mr. Speaker, the global gag rule will cost women around the world their lives. Women in the United States may enjoy reproductive freedom today, but our rights are only as safe as the rights of all women.”