Jared Polis: “Before I get back to education, I want to point out that there is a very unusual component to this rule. There is…”

“Before I get back to education, I want to point out that there is a very unusual component to this rule. There is something called self- executing language, which means that the rule is effectively like a bill, and the language is around a very hot button divisive topic-- namely, abortion. There is actually a provision in this rule that effectively becomes a passed bill--it is self-executing--that would defund school-based health centers if they have any information about referrals or directions or any abortion-related materials. In fact, the language is so vague, they wouldn't even be able to display, under this, antiabortion-related materials. It says: The center will not provide abortion-related materials, referrals, or directions for abortion services to any such student. It would essentially prevent a school from providing information to a child about alternatives to abortion, like adoption or other options that a young parent might have, to be able to stay in school. If this rule passes with this self-executing amendment, I believe that the number of abortions will increase in the country as a result. This is an anti-choice, pro-abortion measure that has been inserted into this rule, and it is very restrictive on our school districts. It is a very unusual procedural tactic. I have never seen, in my 6 years here, a rule used for self-executing language around a divisive topic like abortion.…”