Mid City Times

Last week, Rep. Van Duyne reintroduced the “Caring for Mothers Act” in an effort to empower pregnant mothers who choose adoption over abortion. The proposed legislation would enable women to access health care by allowing families adopting a newborn child to include the pregnant mother on their insurance plan during the pregnancy and for one year postpartum.

"Pregnancy is no small feat and the courageousness of unexpected mothers considering adoption needs to be acknowledged," said Congresswoman Van Duyne. "Many women feel as if abortion is their only option due to the high costs associated with carrying a pregnancy to term. By increasing health insurance access for women considering adoption, we can cut down on fears of financial burden while providing the critical support needed throughout pregnancy journeys.”

The Caring for Mothers Act has received support from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America. Hon. Marilyn Musgrave, Vice President of Government Affairs at Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, expressed her endorsement, stating, "The pro-life movement has always been committed to serving both mother and child throughout all nine months of pregnancy and beyond - this includes birth moms, babies, and families who are adopting."

According to background information provided in the bill text, 40% of women cite economic concerns as the main reason for choosing an abortion. Being uninsured or unable to afford coverage falls under this category.

Congresswoman Van Duyne’s bill contrasts with previous legislative decisions made by Congressional Democrats who have voted in favor of allowing taxpayer funds for elective abortions at any stage of pregnancy.

In July 2021 and 2022 respectively, Democrat-controlled House passed legislation that would allow taxpayer funds to be used for elective abortions and supported legislation that would create a national standard allowing abortions for any reason at any stage of pregnancy up until birth.

This bill would override pro-life laws and prohibit states from enacting legislation that protects unborn children such as protections for babies with Down syndrome and other disabilities. It would also undermine the health and safety of women by eroding the ability of states to hold sexual abusers accountable and undermining mandatory reporting laws.

Congresswoman Van Duyne has consistently supported legislation to empower expecting mothers and families, including voting for the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, supporting Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach’s bill, the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act, questioning HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra about his unfair targeting of crisis pregnancy centers, co-sponsoring the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act, and introducing the “Caring for Mothers Act.”