Bill 118 HR 4789, also known as the Providing for Life Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to establish new regulations and guidelines regarding access to healthcare services related to reproductive health.
One of the key provisions of the Providing for Life Act is the prohibition of federal funding for any healthcare provider that offers abortion services. This includes organizations such as Planned Parenthood, which currently receive federal funding for a variety of healthcare services, including abortion.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to increase funding for crisis pregnancy centers, which provide support and resources to pregnant women considering alternatives to abortion. These centers often offer services such as counseling, adoption referrals, and material assistance for expectant mothers.
The Providing for Life Act also includes provisions to strengthen parental notification requirements for minors seeking abortion services. This means that healthcare providers would be required to notify a parent or guardian before performing an abortion on a minor, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Overall, the Providing for Life Act of 2023 aims to restrict access to abortion services and promote alternatives to abortion, such as adoption and parenting. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect the sanctity of life and ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to fund abortion services. Critics, on the other hand, argue that the bill infringes on women's reproductive rights and limits access to essential healthcare services.