A federal health spending bill scheduled for consideration in the U.S. House this week includes the Hyde Amendment, which bans taxpayer funding for elective abortions. The provision, which is not permanent law, allows federal funds for abortion only in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. The Hyde Amendment has been consistently included in federal spending bills since 1976, despite efforts by many Democrats to eliminate it. Former President Biden reversed his prior support for the amendment, arguing it limits abortion access for low-income women. The bill funds the departments of Labor, Education, and Health and Human Services, and must pass by January 30 to avoid a potential government shutdown.
about 1 month ago
The U.S. House plans to consider a federal health spending bill this week funding Labor, Education, and Health and Human Services departments.1 2
It includes the Hyde Amendment, banning taxpayer funds for elective abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or risk to the mother's life.1 2
Lawmakers must pass it by January 30 to avert a government shutdown.1 2
Enacted as a rider in 1976, the Hyde Amendment has been consistently included in spending bills despite occasional exclusions.1 2
It remains a non-permanent policy reflecting long-standing federal restrictions on abortion funding.1 2
In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order enforcing the Hyde Amendment.1 2
Recently, he urged Republicans to be "flexible" on it during negotiations for Affordable Care Act subsidy extensions, leading to a House passage without the provision after 17 Republicans crossed party lines.1 2
A White House spokesperson affirmed Trump's intent for strong pro-life protections, and a mid-January health plan memo omitted mention of Hyde.1 2
Katie Glenn Daniel of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America called it a popular, five-decade policy against "abortion on demand."1 2
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops lobbied strongly via a January 14 letter, stating Hyde is essential for dignified health care with no compromise on life protection.1 2
Democrats argue it limits low-income women's abortion access.1 2
Former President Biden reversed support pre-2020, excluding it from budgets and deeming healthcare a right not zip-code dependent.1 2
The Hyde Amendment reflects Catholic doctrine on abortion and human dignity