Lawmakers Call for Investigation Into Federal Funding for Abortion Providers
WASHINGTON, D.C. — More than 100 members of Congress have called on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate how much federal funding has been allocated to abortion providers over the past three years. In a bicameral letter led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), the lawmakers emphasized the need for greater transparency in the use of taxpayer dollars.
Request for Investigation
The letter specifically requested updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and other domestic abortion providers.
"We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers," the lawmakers wrote.
The legislators stressed the importance of ensuring public accountability in federal spending. "Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike," they stated. "It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public."
Background
The GAO has conducted several congressionally requested reviews of federal funding for abortion-related organizations in recent years. According to a prior report, the abortion industry received nearly $2 billion in federal taxpayer funding between fiscal years 2019 and 2021. The latest request for updated information builds upon these findings, highlighting the ongoing concern over the allocation of taxpayer dollars to such providers.
Co-Signers
The letter garnered support from 112 members of Congress, including 81 House members and 31 senators. Notably, the signatories include three of the top leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).
The bipartisan coalition of lawmakers seeks to promote transparency in federal spending, ensuring accountability in how public funds are distributed. The GAO’s forthcoming report is expected to shed light on funding levels and aid Congress in its decision-making process.
