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PRO–LIFE Act of 2022
12/29/2022, 12:33 PM
Summary of Bill HR 8862
The bill states that no federal funds, including funds allocated to the Department of Health and Human Services, may be used to pay for abortions or for any health insurance plan that covers abortions. It also prohibits federal funds from being used to subsidize any organization that provides abortions, except in cases of rape, incest, or when the life of the mother is in danger.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to ensure that health care providers are not discriminated against for refusing to provide abortions or refer patients for abortions. It also requires health care providers to inform patients of their rights to receive care that does not include abortion. Overall, the PRO-LIFE Act of 2022 aims to protect the sanctity of life and ensure that federal funds are not used to support abortions. It has garnered support from pro-life advocates and organizations, while facing opposition from pro-choice advocates who argue that it restricts access to reproductive health care.
Congressional Summary of HR 8862
Providing Real Opportunities and Lifelong Investments For Everyone Act of 2022 or the PRO-LIFE Act of 2022
This bill establishes new, and modifies existing, programs related to maternal and child health, tax credits and other benefits for parents and caregivers, and support for childcare infrastructure.
The bill requires multi-agency efforts to improve maternal health and reduce maternal mortality, particularly among racial and ethnic minority groups, veterans, and other vulnerable populations, by addressing both health-related factors and the social determinants of health (i.e., nonmedical factors that influence health outcomes, such as housing, food security, transportation, and environmental conditions). Additionally, the bill permanently extends the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and related measures.
Further, the bill (1) sets up a family medical leave insurance benefit that entitles employees to a monthly benefit payment for a period of qualified caregiving; and (2) imposes a tax on employers, employees, and self-employed individuals to fund the benefits. The bill also increases the amount of the child tax credit and makes the credit fully refundable and payable in advance on a monthly basis.
In addition, the Department of Labor must carry out a program to certify and recognize employers that implement family-friendly workplace programs (e.g., providing paid family and sick leave or subsidizing childcare).
The bill also requires support for childcare infrastructure, for example by establishing grants for childcare facilities and scholarship and loan repayment programs for childcare educators.
