Sanford Bishop: “I thank the gentleman for yielding. I join my chairman in opposing this amendment. Why has my colleague again started…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. I join my chairman in opposing this amendment. Why has my colleague again started the war on women's rights? Why is the gentleman getting involved in the contraception choices of women veterans? Under VA Directive 1331, it is the policy of the VA to provide elective sterilization, for example, salpingectomy, tubal occlusion procedures, vasectomy, and surgery to reverse elective sterilization to eligible veterans as part of contraceptive and infertility services. I don't see my colleague from Pennsylvania calling for a ban of funding vasectomies or even a tubal ligation, getting tubes tied. Both of these are procedures currently allowed. If a woman has decided that she is seeking permanent birth control, why is Congress going to mandate that she undergo a surgical procedure? It is important to recognize that family planning is the most effective way to prevent abortion and unwanted pregnancies. Study after study show that when women have access to contraceptives, the incidence of abortion decreases. Family planning programs are an extremely effective way to support women in improving their own health and that of their families. Why would anyone insist on government interference in providing health care to women? This amendment also demonstrates the deeply troubling and partisan approach on issues affecting women and families. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this amendment.”