On the recordMay 4, 2011
Let me be clear. Throughout my years in Congress, I have always supported the Hyde amendment and have been against any government funding of abortion. Moreover, I have voted with the conviction that we, as Members of Congress, should not reach into the private lives of our constituents on issues as personal as this. There is a very thin line here and this bill goes beyond it. As we all know, good policy is about striking a good balance. During health care reform, we reached a delicate compromise yet this bill would unravel that compromise to use the tax code in an unprecedented manner. As a Member of the Ways and Means Committee, I am acutely aware of how we use the tax code and disagree with the majority's choice to set this precedent. At the end of the day, my constituents know my position on this issue. I believe women should be able to make their personal decisions in consultation with their families, their faith, and with their health professionals. That is how it should be. However, should this bill become law, not only would the IRS be involved asking women about a very personal decision, but the middle class would face increased taxes. I am not comfortable with these consequences and with the unbalanced approach of this bill. I urge my colleagues to vote no on H.R. 3.
