Joe Pitts: “I rise to oppose the Lowey amendment because it does not address the underlying problem. Whether we support pro-abortion…”

“I rise to oppose the Lowey amendment because it does not address the underlying problem. Whether we support pro-abortion organizations through cash donations or items of cash value, the result is the same. The amendment before us today attempts to undermine the Mexico City policy. The Mexico City policy exists to draw a bright line between U.S. family planning policy and abortion. However, it appears that there are some out there who wish to blur this line. Mr. Chairman, a blurred line is what leads to coercive abortions and forced sterilizations. The Mexico City policy is critical for several reasons. First, money is fungible. Every U.S. tax dollar or commodity that goes to an abortion provider frees up funds to pay for more abortions and more pro-abortion lobbying. Secondly, our population grantees are seen as representatives of the United States in the countries in which we operate. When organizations prominently associated with United States family planning programs perform and promote abortions, people in these countries logically associate these activities with the United States. It is important to note that this policy does not in any way reduce funds for family planning.”