A coalition of 112 Members of Congress, led by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representative Chris Smith (R-N.J.), has called on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate federal funding awarded to abortion providers over the past three years.
The request aims to provide transparency and accountability in the allocation of taxpayer funds.
The lawmakers’ bicameral letter specifically asks the GAO to examine funding distributed to organizations such as the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices (formerly Marie Stopes International), and four domestic abortion providers. The letter highlights the importance of oversight to ensure federal funds are used appropriately.
“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 lawmakers wrote. “The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike.”
The requested investigation would cover fiscal years 2022-2024 and build on previous GAO reports, including one that revealed nearly $2 billion in federal funding for the abortion industry between fiscal years 2019 and 2021.
he letter outlines specific areas for the GAO to examine, including:
- Federal Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Federal obligations, disbursements, and expenditures, including anomalies such as Paycheck Protection Program loans.
- Planned Parenthood and Affiliates: Funding sources, methods of distribution, and reported obligations across federal programs, including Medicaid and Title X.
- International Organizations: Expenditures of federal funding by International Planned Parenthood Federation and MSI Reproductive Choices, including sources such as USAID and other federal programs.
- Domestic Abortion Providers: Detailed federal funding breakdowns for organizations like FPA Women’s Health and Whole Women’s Health.
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The letter was co-signed by 81 House members and 31 senators, including House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.). Their involvement underscores the high level of interest in increased transparency surrounding federal funding for abortion-related services.
Over the years, the GAO has released several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for abortion providers. The most recent report revealed significant funding allocated to these organizations, prompting lawmakers to seek updated data to inform future budget and policy decisions.
“This report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provide increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public,” the lawmakers emphasized.
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The GAO investigation, if initiated, could play a critical role in shaping the debate over federal funding for abortion providers. With growing calls for fiscal responsibility and transparency, the report’s findings could influence legislative decisions regarding funding allocations and oversight of taxpayer dollars.
The coalition expressed hope that the report will help ensure accountability and transparency, offering a clearer picture of how federal funds are being utilized in this contentious area of public policy.
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