WASHINGTON – Standing with Pro-Life Democratic Members of the House of Representatives, Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee), talked about the 95-10 initiative, which would reduce the number of abortions in America by 95% over 10 years through a number of proactive solutions to provide information, support, and alternatives to abortion.

“The Republicans continue to point fingers at who is to blame for allowing abortions to occur in America. In the meantime, nothing is being done to provide people with the education and support to prevent abortions from happening. I stand with my fellow Democratic Pro-Lifers to say that we have practical solutions,” said Stupak. “This 95-10 initiative focuses on health care opportunities, educational programs and alternative options for women considering an abortion.”

Many women turn to abortion because of financial circumstances, peer and family pressure, or concerns about health related issues. The 95-10 initiative, which will eventually be presented as legislation before Congress, provides funding for programs that focus on the parents and children involved in preventing abortion.

In order to educate and help support women in their decision, the initiative provides public awareness programs, pregnancy prevention programs, abortion counseling and education on University campuses, informational programs to pregnant patients, tax credits for adoption, health care opportunities and domestic violence programs.

The 95-10 initiative also provides a means to protect the children who are potential victims as well as potential recipients of an abortion. The 95-10 initiative would fully fund the WIC program, special nutrition for Women Infants and Children (WIC), as well as require the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) to cover pregnant women.  It would also enforce parental notification and prohibit transport across state lines for minors seeking an abortion.  This initiative would promote safe haven laws which would designate hospitals, emergency rooms, fire and police stations as safe locations for women. The program would also provide for adoption counseling in federally funded maternity group homes and teaching of parenting skills.

“The 95-10 Initiative is an aggressive and comprehensive plan to bring down the rate of abortions in this country. By instituting these programs we can reach out to young parents to offer the information and assistance they need to make the right decision of keeping a life and then help them foster that life by teaching parenting skills and providing adequate healthcare,” Stupak said.

###