On June 24, we will commemorate the first anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned the controversial Roe v. Wade decision of 1973. The Dobbs decision has resulted in the saving of countless lives, as evidenced by the number of babies born across the country.
For over half a century, those who advocate for the rights of the unborn have endeavored to educate their communities about the humanity of the unborn child, to enact legislation to protect these vulnerable individuals, and to promote a culture of life. Their efforts have been commendable.
We extend our gratitude to all those who have dedicated their time, talent, and resources to this cause.
In Dobbs, the Supreme Court ruled that laws regarding abortion should be enacted by “elected representatives,” rather than by the courts. Many states have enacted such laws, which are more restrictive and protective than those permitted under Roe and Doe. In addition to saving the lives of unborn children, these laws often provide resources to assist both the mother and the child.
However, there has been considerable debate and numerous news articles about the extent of the federal government’s role in regulating abortion. Should there be a minimum standard? Should the laws be enacted at the state level only? Can federal candidates simply disclaim any responsibility for the issue and assert that it is best handled at the state level?
The aforementioned sentiment is problematic in that the federal government is both too large and too involved in state matters to “stay out of it.” The Supreme Court’s assertion that “elected representatives” was not specific to state or federal representatives. Instead, it merely indicated that the courts should not be the primary arbiters of legislation. National Right to Life has proposed a plan for lawmakers and candidates that outlines how the federal government can, in fact, promote the value and dignity of every human life.
It is evident that the federal government does indeed have a role to play.
The role of the federal government in the protection of preborn children is a complex and sensitive issue
In a historic ruling on June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court made a bold move, overturning the controversial Roe v. Wade decision. They declared that there is no constitutional right to abortion in the United States. However, they did not stop there. In the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, they paved the way for elected representatives to enact abortion-related policies, including protections for preborn children and their mothers. This is a significant step forward in the ongoing debate about reproductive rights in the United States.
It’s incredible to see how many pro-life laws and policies are being enacted at the state level! While this is happening, the federal government, from the executive branch to the U.S. Congress, is also playing a crucial role. They have the opportunity and responsibility to protect the most vulnerable members of the human family.
While it may be challenging to pass a national law protecting preborn children and their mothers from the tragedy of abortion, there are still many ways we can make a difference at the federal level. We can reduce the number of abortions, help mothers, and save lives by enacting life-affirming policies.
We are thrilled to urge all lawmakers, as well as candidates for Congress and President, to embrace the incredible opportunity the federal government has to advance life-affirming policies in the United States. This includes:
- It is imperative that no taxpayer dollars be utilized to fund abortions or subsidize health insurance plans that include abortion coverage or promotion, both within the United States and internationally. Furthermore, it is crucial to minimize taxpayer funding of abortion providers to the greatest extent possible.
- It is important to acknowledge the crucial role of parents in the decision-making process surrounding their minor daughter’s abortion.
- The objective is to facilitate the connection of new and expectant mothers with resources.
- Protecting babies born alive after an abortion attempt.
- To reduce the risk of death and injury to the mother, we need protective protocols for chemical abortions.
- Promoting education about fetal development and the dangers of abortion.
- The CDC must collect and publish data on abortion in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. This includes the number of abortions, the age of the mother and the unborn child, and complications and deaths.
- Protecting the rights of health care workers and facilities that don’t want to perform or help with abortions.
- To nominate and confirm only federal judges and justices who will fairly and honestly interpret the Constitution according to its text and history.
It is also incumbent upon presidential candidates to recognize the ability and responsibility of the chief executive to institute a whole-of-government approach. This can be achieved through the use of life-affirming executive orders and statements of administration policy, as well as personnel appointments, among other tools. Such an approach would ensure that all Executive Branch departments promote the intrinsic value and dignity of innocent human life.
Daniel Miller is responsible for nearly all of National Right to Life News' political writing.
With the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, Daniel Miller developed a deep obsession with U.S. politics that has never let go of the political scientist. Whether it's the election of Joe Biden, the midterm elections in Congress, the abortion rights debate in the Supreme Court or the mudslinging in the primaries - Daniel Miller is happy to stay up late for you.
Daniel was born and raised in New York. After living in China, working for a news agency and another stint at a major news network, he now lives in Arizona with his two daughters.
