Abortion Funding Question Behind Ad and Protest
Posted at: 03/18/2010 9:14 PM
| Updated at: 03/19/2010 12:32 PM
By: Katie Lange
Klange@wdio.com
At issue is whether the final version of the bill would allow federal funding for abortion.
The ad was launched by Catholics United, a group in support of Congressman Oberstar voting "Yes" to health care reform. Chris Korzen, the executive director of the group, said the focus is broader than just the topic of abortion.
"We feel that the real important benefit of health care reform is that we're expanding health care benefits to 30 million people across the country. That's consistent with Catholic values and it's what our elected officials should be doing," said Korzen.
A group protested outside of Oberstar's Duluth office on Thursday. Some people are concerned that the bill would allow federal funding for abortion. One of those concerned is Shannon Stone, organizer of the protest.
"It includes funding for abortion and euthanasia. Traditionally he (Oberstar) has stood on a pro-life platform that we do like. I do believe that many people have voted for him because of his stance on that," said Stone.
John Schadl, spokesperson for Congressman Oberstar, said that the language in both the House and Senate bills clearly state that no tax payers money will be spent on abortion.
During an afternoon conference call, a group of Catholics and pro-life congressmen said the health care bill is the ultimate pro-life effort. However, the group did acknowledge that Catholics don't speak with only one voice. The debate is expected to continue until the vote is final.
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