The No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2023 is a proposed law that aims to stop federal money from being used to help people travel to get an abortion. This bill is part of ongoing debates about how federal funds should be used in relation to abortion services.
What This Bill Does
The No Federal Funds for Abortion Travel Expenses Act of 2023 is a bill that seeks to prevent federal money from being used to help people travel to another state or country to get an abortion. This means that if the bill becomes law, federal programs won't be able to pay for things like plane tickets, bus fares, or hotel stays for people traveling for an abortion. The bill specifically targets the use of federal funds for travel-related expenses, not the abortion procedure itself.
The bill includes a rule that makes it clear it does not stop people from traveling to another state for an abortion. Instead, it focuses on making sure federal money isn't used to support that travel. This is similar to existing laws, like the Hyde Amendment, which already restricts federal funds from being used for most abortions.
This bill would affect federal programs and agencies that might currently help with travel costs for abortion, such as the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs. These agencies would need to change their policies to comply with the new law if it passes.
Why It Matters
This bill could have a significant impact on people who live in states with strict abortion laws. If federal funds can't be used to help with travel costs, it might become much harder for people in these states to access abortion services elsewhere. This could especially affect low-income individuals who can't afford to pay for travel out of pocket.
For people who work for the federal government, like service members and veterans, this bill could mean changes in what their benefits cover. If they need to travel for an abortion, they might have to pay for it themselves, which could be a financial burden.
Key Facts
- The bill is a funding prohibition, so it aims to limit certain federal expenditures rather than authorize new spending.
- No Congressional Budget Office (CBO) cost estimate is available for the bill.
- The bill would take effect upon enactment, with agencies needing to update guidance quickly.
- It affects individuals in restrictive states, service members, veterans, and federal employees.
- The bill has not advanced out of committee and has no recorded amendments.
- It is part of a broader pattern of federal restrictions on abortion funding.
- The likelihood of passage is low given the current political climate and lack of movement in Congress.
Arguments in Support
- Supporters argue that the bill protects taxpayers who don't want their money used for abortion-related travel.
- They believe it closes a loophole that allows federal funds to indirectly support abortions by covering travel costs.
- The bill is seen as respecting state laws by not undermining states with stricter abortion regulations.
- Supporters claim it prevents federal agencies from using resources for abortion-related travel instead of their core missions.
- They argue it aligns with conscience protections for individuals who oppose abortion.
Arguments in Opposition
- Opponents say the bill increases barriers to abortion access, especially for low-income individuals.
- They argue it disproportionately affects marginalized groups who can't afford travel costs.
- The bill could limit access for service members and veterans who rely on federal support for healthcare.
- Critics say it creates geographic inequities, making it harder for people in restrictive states to access legal medical care.
- They warn it could complicate medical care in emergencies where travel is necessary for health reasons.