Pump up the volume...

I'm on a few mailing lists. I am also a member of FAWCO. This came in the other day from the FAWCO list...

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has proposed new regulations that would effectively redefine commonly used birth control methods as “abortions” and restrict the access of millions of women to contraception methods and information about alternative methods of birth control.

Women’s groups are disappointed that a department of the US Government which should normally be concerned about women’s welfare is using its power to try to curb and dramatically restrict the ability of women, particularly the 17 million women who depend on federally-supported medical facilities, to receive contraceptive services.

FAWCO, in keeping with its Resolutions & Recommendations which state:

2. Resolves to encourage and support FAWCO members to promote human rights and welfare with a special focus on the most vulnerable women and children through education and awareness-raising, and recommends:

c. Affirming a person’s right to accurate information about reproductive and sexual health, including HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases; supporting health education programs aimed at preventing, controlling and treating diseases, as well as publishing information on cardiovascular disease, cancer and other health issues;

has written a letter to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, Mike Leavitt recommending that the department drop the proposed regulatory change and concentrate on improving and expanding medical services for women, particularly those least able to afford private clinics.

Our letter is on our website under UN/NGO “FAWCO Speaks Out.”

For a complete copy of the regulations the Department of Health and Human Services is proposing, go to www.hhs.gov/news/press/2008pres/08/20080821reg.pdf

The government has a 30-day public comment period, which will continue until Sept 20. During this time, if you wish to comment you can contact the government at www.hhs.gov/ContactUs.html.

If you would like more information go to NOW’s website at: www.capwiz.com.

Are we that far removed from reality? Where are we headed? I feel like women are going back in time. Judith Martin's blog today spoke volumes.

Words fail me.