Campaign Underway to Understate Impact of FOCA

FOCA, the so-called Freedom of Choice Act, is a very real and dangerous threat to women and unborn babies. As repeatedly reported in this blog and on our FOCA webpage, FOCA would overturn some 350 laws passed by the various states to restrict abortion.

Proponents of abortion have started a campaign to understate the impact of FOCA to try to make it palatable to the American public. Websites are claiming Catholic bishops are practicing “hysterics” by expressing concern over the real possibility of Catholic hospitals having to perform abortions. One commentator claims the right-to-life movement had to “invent” fears about FOCA to get people to vote against Obama.

Here is what a 2004 Planned Parenthood fact sheet says about FOCA: FOCA would immediately restore reproductive freedom for the millions of American women who already face interference with their right to choose as a result of onerous state and federal restrictions. FOCA will supercede anti-choice laws that restrict the right to choose, including laws that prohibit the public funding of abortions for poor women or counseling and referrals for abortions. Additionally, FOCA will prohibit onerous restrictions on a woman’s right to choose, such as mandated delays and targeted and medically unnecessary regulations.”

Just like we have been saying for the past 16 years.

Proponents are also trying to throw everyone off track, claiming there are not enough votes for FOCA, it is not a priority, etc. Only a fool would listen to such rhetoric. What is especially troubling is to hear right-to-life commentators surmise that it is unlikely FOCA will pass. What crystal ball are they consulting?

Wisconsin Right to Life is not fooled by the rhetoric and will continue an aggressive campaign to educate and motivate people to oppose FOCA in every way possible.

Barbara Lyons