Planned Parenthood | Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Number of abortions down slightly in Minnesota, Star Tribune 7.1.09

Reactions to the Franken ruling, MPR 6.30.09

More reactions to Franken’s Senate victory, Minnesota Independent 6.30.09

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St. Paul, MN – Today, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) commented on the Minnesota Department of Health Abortion Report.  

“The overall decline in abortion in nearly every category is positive news and a goal that PPMNS works toward every day in our clinics across the region,” said PPMNS spokeswoman Kathi Di Nicola.

“Access to basic preventative health care is essential, particularly during difficult economic times, to give women the tools they need to protect their futures and support their families,” said Di Nicola. “We still have much work to do to ensure that every Minnesotan has access to the health care they need to build brighter, healthier futures. This is definitely a step in the right direction,” Di Nicola said.
 
Ninety-five percent of the care Planned Parenthood provides is preventive and primary. In 2008 alone, PPMNS provided more than 300,000 units of contraception, nearly 58,000 STD tests, more than 20,000 breast cancer screenings and over 17,000 cervical cancer screenings throughout our region.

“The best way to sustain reductions in the need for abortion is to provide accessible, affordable birth control and accurate, fact based sexuality education to all Minnesotans. Planned Parenthood continues to work with the legislature and in our clinics across the state to do just that,” said Di Nicola.

“We again call on  groups like the MCCL join to with us in taking tangible, common-sense steps to prevent unintended pregnancy and reduce the need for abortion in Minnesota,” Di Nicola said.

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Contact: Kathi Di Nicola
Director of Media Relations
(651) 755 – 9557  

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Today’s Minnesota Supreme Court Ruling Marks the End to the U.S. Senate Race in Minnesota.

(St. Paul) Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) calls on Governor Pawlenty to immediately sign the election certificate so that U.S. Senator Al Franken can begin to serve our state.

“Today’s ruling restores full and fair representation to the citizens of the state of Minnesota,” said Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota.

“Health care reform, probably the most important legislation of our generation, is being debated in Congress and Minnesotans deserve to have two United States Senators representing their interests in Washington,” Stoesz said “We urge the governor to honor the Supreme Court’s ruling and certify the election without delay,” said Stoesz.
 

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Contact: Kathi Di Nicola, Media Relations Director, 651.755.9557
                           
 

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More local residents seek free health care, St. Cloud Times 6.27.09

Judge To Hear Arguments on S.D. Abortion Law Requiring Statement That Procedure Ends Human Life, Daily Women's Health Policy Report 6.29.09

FDA Approves Generic Version of Plan B, Wall Street Journal 6.29.09

 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Seriously though. Planned Parenthood is pretty big deal to the health and lives of millions of people.  So often people think of abortion when they hear Planned Parenthood. But abortion is just a very small part of the health services we provide.

90% of Planned Parenthood’s work is preventative. And over half of our patients consider Planned Parenthood to be their only source for health care.  Clearly, Planned Parenthood is essential for women’s overall wellness.
 
And as an essential community health provider, it is vital that Planned Parenthood be part of any new health care system.  President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Cecilia Richards emphasized this very point:

Via huffpo:

Family planning and reproductive health care are unfortunately still not fully part of mainstream health care, even though 98 percent of women use contraception at some point in their lives - there's nothing more universal! Maybe one day we won't need a special campaign to support women's health. But until then, Planned Parenthood is here to make sure women aren't worse off after health care reform than before.

If you want to learn more about health care reform, come to our Live Action Camp in July and learn all about it! Contact (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for details.

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National county-level HIV map shows highest rates of  infection in Ga., other parts of South, Star Tribune, 6.22.09

Secret Abortion Donor  Hearing Set in Sioux Falls, Keloland.com 6.23.09

Klobuchar bill condemning  Tiller murder faces GOP opposition, 6.22.09 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

A year ago this summer, the South Dakota Campaign for Healthy Families began the fight against South Dakota's second abortion ban.  It definitely seemed like an uphill battle, but the ban was defeated by a huge margin, sending a clear message to those that wish interfere in extremely emotional and personal, family decisions.

It couldn't have been done without volunteers on the ground making phone calls, knocking on doors, and talking to friends and family about how misleading and intrusive this ban was.  As a thank you to all those who worked against this ban, please take a moment to reflect on your amazing success, and relive the excitement of November 4th, 2008 by checking out the video below.

Thank you!!

 

South Dakotans and other readers; you know there is still a tremendous amount of work to be done on behalf of women's health in South Dakota and across the country. Please stay connected and continue to stand up for reproductive rights!!

South Dakota

 

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Upcoming Events

-South Dakotans for Health Care Solutions is holding a health care forum in July in Sioux Falls. Stay tuned for exact details.

-Sioux Empire Fair Voices for Choice table, August 6-11

-Sidewalk Arts Festival, Voices for Choice table, Sept 12th in Downtown Sioux Falls

For more details email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Stay Connected

Check out our blog to get the latest on reproductive rights issues in South Dakota and across the country!

 

Aren't You Worried About Catching "It"? Star Tribune 6.16.09

Seeing Red is Not Always What You Think, Sarah Stoesz RH Reality Check 6.16.09 

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by Jennifer

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

June 15th through the 21st is National Men’s Health Week. Men's Health Week is celebrated each year as the week leading up to and including Father's Day. Sometimes on this blog it seems like men’s health can be put on the back burner compared to our discussion women’s reproductive health. But, obviously affordable reproductive health care for both women AND men is imperative to our overall health.

And now for some interesting tidbits on men’s reproductive health: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s study ‘Fertility, Contraception, and Fatherhood: Data on Men and Women From Cycle 6 (2002) of the National Survey of Family Growth’, adolescent men (15–19 years old) were more likely to report receiving a health service (72 percent) than adult men (51–53 percent). They were also more likely to report a testicular exam (57 percent) than older men (35–37 percent). Services like checkups for reproductive or sexual health problems, routine physical exams, testicular and prostate cancer screenings, to name a few, are very important to the overall health of men of all ages.

Additionally, the life-expectancy gap between men and women has decreased; still it is clear that there is much room for improvement. Men tend to smoke and drink more than women. They do not seek medical help as often as women. For more info, check out this cool test from the CDC to test your knowledge about men’s health here.

Many of the major health risks that men face can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. Screening tests can catch diseases early, often when treatments are more successful. This is a good reason that shows the importance for all men to have regular checkups and screenings.

Men and women both deserve health services and to have affordable access to testing and education options readily available to them. Planned Parenthood offers a wide array of health services for men.

For more information and event ideas for National Men’s Health Week, click here.

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Health Disparities Persist For Indians, Rural Americans, Immigrants Kaiser Health News 6.15.09

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by Erin
Web Correspondent
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Recently, the national unemployment rate reportedly hit 9.4%, the highest figure in over 25 years. A daunting number in and of itself, the effects of unemployment are incalculable as of yet, but are felt acutely by those who are losing their health care coverage and falling into the category of ‘the uninsured’. The American health care system has been employer based for decades, ensuring the affordability of even basic coverage guaranteed through an employer’s company or business, with only a relatively small number of people eligible for Federal or State programs receiving any sort of comprehensive public aid. As unemployment rates increase, the number of uninsured individuals and families also follows and now, more than ever, health care providers such as Planned Parenthood are needed to supplement reproductive health care and family planning as people find themselves increasingly without private health insurance.

Not surprisingly, Planned Parenthood (PPMNS) has seen the effects for those uninsured due to job loss or prospective job loss. According to Kathi Di Nicola, PPMNS  Director of Media Relations, Planned Parenthood has seen a 51% increase in long-term birth control use such as IUDs and Depo-Provera, methods that can last from 3 months up to 10 years. This indicates that women are planning ahead and ensuring that they will have more long-term solutions to their contraceptive needs rather than deciding month to month how they will afford the pill. The most interesting and perhaps most indicative effect of the employment and insurance conundrum is the increase in returning clientele. Women who relied on Planned Parenthood in their early 20’s are returning again as patients once they have lost their jobs, and thus their regular insurance. The need for Planned Parenthood’s services and low-cost solutions to medical needs is obviously increasing and will continue to increase until a solution has been resolved on health care reform on a national level.

Until then, Planned Parenthood will continue to be a community provider of accessible reproductive health care for Minnesota men and women.

In light of our current economic problems and health care insecurities, Planned Parenthood’s funding and ability to continue providing services and programs such as 4NOW (which makes birth control affordable and free for uninsured women) are incredibly important. Watch this blog for more information on the upcoming budget hurdles for Minnesota and family planning programs.
 

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The Deadly Toll of Abortion by Amateurs, New York Times 6.1.09

Letters: Basic right to insurance, Argus Leader 6.10.09

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Did you know that the US has the highest teen pregnancy rate in the industrialized world? That 30% of teenage girls in the US will become pregnant at least once before the age of 20? How about that less than 50% of teen moms will graduate from high school and less than 2% will obtain a college degree? (Stats via stayteen)

Teen pregnancy is a huge issue in the US. And a new series from MTV, 16 and Pregnant, will attempt to document the trials and tribulations of being a pregnant teen.

Via stayteen:

Each story offers a unique look into the wide variety of challenges pregnant teens face: marriage, adoption, religion, gossip, finances, rumors among the community, graduating high school, getting (or losing) a job. Faced with incredibly adult decisions, these girls are forced to sacrifice their teenage years and their high school experiences. But there is an optimism among them; they have the dedication to make their lives work, and to do as they see fit to provide the best for their babies.

Check out the trailer:

While many past efforts to document the teenage pregnancy issue have fallen flat, I have high hopes for this series.  With MTVs knack for storytelling that connects to its audience and its issue-expert partners for the series, the Kaiser Family Foundation and the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, I hope the series will accurately illuminate the complexities and challenges of teenage pregnancy. Additionally, the National Campaign has prepared discussion guides for the show so that the show acts as a platform for parents, teachers, and other adults to have open, honest discussions about teen pregnancy with the teens in their lives.

The series premieres at 9PM Central on MTV. 

If you happen to see it, come back and leave a comment—- let us know what you thought about it!

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Abortion foes build ‘legal fence’ at state level, MSNBC 6.8.09

Barbara Shelly: A closer look at the people Tiller helped, Pioneer Press 6.9.09

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Antiabortion Efforts move to the State Level, Washington Post 6.8.09

Closed Clinic Leaves Abortion Protesters at a Loss, New York Times 6.7.09

My Choice, Washington Post 6.7.09 

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Rachel

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

As we mourn the death of Dr. Tiller, we must keep his spirit alive in our lives and work.  He was a man who dedicated his entire life supporting and protecting the lives of women, even in the face of continued threats to his life.  He was murdered at his place of worship, a place where people go to come together, a place whose peace was shattered by this senseless act.  We all need to come together and promote women’s health care in this country and continue our work to ensure that all women have access to reproductive health care. Can we not agree that free access to maternal care and health care for our children should be a priority? Let's open the dialogue between parents and youth to ensure that all our children have the facts about sexual health that they need to stay healthy and strong so they can make informed decisions.  Remember Dr. Tiller, support women’s health care, volunteer in your community and keep the dialogue open. 

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GF Valley Health clinic feels impact of slumping economy, Grand Forks Herald 6.3.09

For Some Sexually Transmitted Infections, Secondary Prevention May Be Primary (pdf), Guttmacher Policy Review, Spring 2009

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by Sarah Stoesz

President

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

When the news hit that Dr. George Tiller had been shot to death in Wichita, Kansas, my thoughts turned immediately to his wife, his children, his grandchildren, his fellow churchgoers and the many women and families who benefited from his compassionate care. 

I thought, too, about the safety of our staff, our patients, and the legions of volunteers who support the work we do at Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota. I vowed, as has our board of directors, that our security team would overlook no detail and spare no expense in protecting them.

I also thought about the angry protesters who gather every day outside our Highland Park clinic – and clinics around the country. They hold up distorted images and attempt to dehumanize our patients and staff. Their overheated, hate-filled rhetoric, fueled by the likes of Bill O’Reilly and too many others, feeds the paranoid fantasies of vulnerable, mentally unstable people.

What happened to Dr. Tiller is more than tragic. And if there’s one thing on which we can all agree, it is to tamp down the rhetoric. It’s time for ethically based people to come together, put a stop to this madness and start working toward practical solutions.

Dr. Tiller’s work was born of compassion. He was one of a handful of doctors willing to provide abortions in the most difficult of situations: when the life and health of the mother was clearly at risk or when there were fetal anomalies not compatible with life. He simply would not be deterred by the relentless threats against his life, assaults on his person, damage to his property and ceaseless verbal attacks.

Those with whom I’m privileged to work at Planned Parenthood are equally principled and committed. They will let nothing stand between them and the many people who need their services and care.

One of our volunteers, in fact, was spurred into action on Jan. 22, the day a man intentionally rammed his SUV into the front of our Highland Park clinic. This volunteer now serves as a clinic escort, ensuring that our patients and staff can come and go from the building with as little harassment as possible from protesters.

He responded the way many of us did to Dr. Tiller’s death: “With profound sadness, then anger, then just determination that this cannot stand.”

And, like Dr. Tiller, he will not be deterred: “I’m frightened,” he said, “but I can’t let this stop me. It’s very important to stay committed and focused on continuing to provide access to safe and legal care.”

Dr. Tiller stayed calmly and serenely above the fray. We admired his strength, his refusal to back down and, above all, his kindness toward his patients. We will remember him as does his colleague Dr. Shelley Sella. In an interview with Amy Goodman, she said: “Dr. Tiller . . . did everything out of kindness, justice, love and respect. Those were some of the words that he used to describe the doctor-patient relationship that he thought was so important, but those are words that describe him and the way that he provided care.”

As we mourn and remember Dr. Tiller, we will move forward with determination, courage and civility. We will stay focused on ensuring that our patients get the primary and preventive care they need at our clinics: cancer screenings, contraception and immunizations. We will renew our call to respect each other’s differences.

It is the only way to honor a man who refused to be intimidated.


 

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Sarah Stoesz: A killing in Kansas hits home in Minnesota, Star Tribune 6.3.09

Candlelight vigil for slain abortion doctor tonight in Twin Cities, Star Tribune 6.2.09

Slaying Raises Fears on Both Sides of Abortion Debate, Washington Post 6.2.09

Slain abortion doctor no stranger to violence, but refused to back down: `I know they need me', Star Tribune 6.2.09

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On Sunday, May 31st, Dr. George Tiller was murdered as he entered his church in Wichita, Kansas. Dr. Tiller provided abortion services in the state of Kansas and was a frequent target of harassment and intimidation. The pro-choice community is reeling from this act of violence against one of our greatest advocates, and many pro-choice supporters have contacted us asking what they can do.

Rather than letting this unspeakable act divide us, let's work together with civility and respect. Let us offer our encouragement and support to those that continue to make women's health care a priority.

Please join the Minnesota Choice Coalition in a candlelight vigil for Dr. Tiller this Tuesday, June 2nd from 9-9:30pm in the South West corner of Loring Park in Minneapolis (near Hennepin and 15th).

There will be no speaking program, no bullhorns, no chanting and no political rhetoric. We just want to gather to silently reflect on one man's life and contribution to the pro-choice movement, and to mourn among other pro-choice supporters.

Please bring your own candle, and meet us in Loring Park tomorrow night from 9-9:30pm. This event is open to the public.

If possible, please RSVP so that we have an idea of how many people to expect. You can email us at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or RSVP via Facebook.

Thank you for all you do for the pro-choice movement; we hope to see you tomorrow night in Loring Park.

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 Ellison Condemns Kansas Physician Slaying:

“I join with President Obama and others in expressing my shock and outrage at the killing of Dr. George Tiller, a prominent Kansas physician.

I extend my heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Tiller’s family. 

There is no room in America to ‘justify’ murder in the name of ideological differences.  I condemn the act committed against Dr. Tiller as well as those who take comfort from his death.

I am grateful to President Obama and Attorney General Holder for providing additional security to certain doctors and clinics.  However, no doctor or family planning provider should have to fear for their lives.  Nor should they have to live with stalking, threats, harassment, intimidation or other acts of illegal demonstration.

Americans have ideological differences that we feel strongly about – but it is wrong to commit murder because of them.”

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by the Planned Parenthood Advocate Editorial Team
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund
http://www.plannedparenthoodadvocate.org

By now, you have likely heard the horrible news of Dr. George Tiller's murder. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time.


Dr. Tiller, an abortion provider, had been harassed by abortion opponents for much of his career - his clinic was burned down, he was shot in both arms by an abortion protestor, and he was recently targeted for investigation with a jury acquittal coming just a few months ago. Despite all this, he remained committed to providing women and families with the abortion care they needed.

Dr. Tiller's death is a profound loss for women and their families across the country and an immeasurable loss to those working to ensure women have access to all safe, legal health care, including abortion, even in some of the most difficult circumstances.   

President Obama, said it well:

However profound our differences as Americans over difficult issues such as abortion, they cannot be resolved by heinous acts of violence.

Rather than letting this unspeakable act divide us, let's work together with civility and respect. Let us offer our encouragement and support to those that continue to make women's health care a priority by providing them the full range of their reproductive choices.


Please, share this note to further condemn this brutal act and to show your support for those who continue to provide access to abortion in the face of violence.

Please keep the family of Dr. Tiller in your thoughts and prayers.

  

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Statement on the Murder of Dr. George Tiller from Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota South Dakota President and CEO Sarah Stoesz

We are deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Dr. George Tiller's murder today.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time.

We denounce this act of unspeakable violence and brutality and remain steadfast in our commitment to provide health care to every woman that relies on Planned Parenthood.  Obviously, the health and safety of our patients and staff is paramount.

Dr. Tiller had been harassed by abortion opponents for much of his career - his clinic was burned down, he was shot in both arms by an abortion protestor, and he was recently targeted for investigation with a jury acquittal coming just a few months ago. None of this stopped the courageous Dr. Tiller from providing women and their families with abortion care they needed.

Dr. Tiller's death is a profound loss for women and their families across the country and an immeasurable loss to those working to ensure women have access to all safe, legal  health care, including abortion, even in some of the most difficult circumstances.   We mourn with his family and with our entire community.

 

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STATEMENT FROM THE PRESIDENT ON THE MURDER OF DR. GEORGE TILLER

I am shocked and outraged by the murder of Dr. George Tiller as he attended church services this morning.  However profound our differences as Americans over difficult issues such as abortion, they cannot be resolved by heinous acts of violence.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

What's a Planned Parenthood volunteer clinic escort and why are they needed? Well, unfortunately, everyday outside of our Highland Park clinic there are protesters who harass our patients as they enter and exit our clinic.  Our clinic escorts perform a very criticial role; they help ensure that our patients can enter and exit safely and with as little harassment from anti-choicers as possible.  It's a challenging position, but at the end of the day, escorts know that they are making a big difference.  Check out the video below to learn more about the important work our escorts do.

 

A big thank you goes out to all of the people who have worked as clinic escorts. We can't thank you enough!!!

If you are interested in becoming an escort for Planned Parenthood, email us at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

You can subscribe to our podcast in itunes for free HERE.

Stay Connected 

 

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Working toward common ground in the abortion debate, by Sarah Stoesz, RH Reality Check 5.27.09

Anti-abortion group sees a few successes this session, Minnesota Independent 5.27.09

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by Sarah Stoesz

President 

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

A recent Gallup Poll appears to show a shift in public opinion on abortion, with more Americans than ever identifying as “pro-life.” But experience shows that such labels as “pro-life” and “pro-choice” are hopelessly dated and serve to drive wedges between us, and that the poll itself might be asking the wrong questions altogether.

Read deeper into the results of this and other recent polls and you will find that, no matter what the label, most Americans want to keep abortion legal.

We know from our work in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, that the more we engage in substantive discussion about the issues that affect the health and safety of women, the more people understand and honor the complexity of the abortion issue and recognize the need to leave these personal decisions to women and families.

The truth is that many people have some level of moral ambivalence about abortion. Most South Dakotans, for example, self-identify as "pro-life" and are opposed to abortion, but they have defeated statewide measures to ban abortion in two elections. Even the most conservative Americans want to keep abortion safe, legal and rare. Why? Because abortion is a morally complicated issue, which is precisely why woman are entitled to think it through and come to their own conclusions.

It’s high time that the rest of the country follow South Dakota's lead and stop using the divisive language of the past and start acknowledging and respecting the internal conflict felt by many voters on this issue.  Acknowledging moral conflict is not something to fear, but rather, a measure of respect for an individual's capacity to make the best decision for themselves and their families, rather than being left at the whim of government decision makers.

South Dakota voters didn’t reject abortion bans because they are suddenly “pro-choice.” Rather, they said “no” because they understood the consequences of banning abortion and did not want government intruding on personal family decisions.

The key to expanding the conversation and creating the common ground that President Obama so eloquently called for in his address at Notre Dame is to acknowledge differing views and concerns about abortion while also reinforcing the idea that abortion is a personal matter in which government and others should not interfere.

President Obama’s speech mirrored the sentiments of most Americans and underscored the importance of the work Planned Parenthood does every day to provide family planning services and reduce unintended pregnancy.

Roe v. Wade has been settled law for decades.  Those who try to rekindle that debate with heated rhetoric are taking the focus off the common goals most of us share of reducing unintended consequences and the need for abortion.

These are goals we can all agree on. Let's move beyond labels and toward meeting these goals.

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Reproductive Health is Basic (by Amy Jacobson & Tim Stanley) Fargo Forum 5.24.09

Obama chooses Sonia Sotomayor for Supreme Court, historic nomination of first Hispanic Star Tribune 5.26.09

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Women Struggling to Afford Care, by Shannon Stevens, Argus Leader 5.26.09

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Tracking Public Opinion on Abortion: It's Tricky, New York Times 5.21.09

Abortion Polls Back and Forth, Chicago Tribune 5.19.09

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

You may remember the exciting news from a couple weeks ago that Governor Pawlenty had signed a bill that bans the chemical Bisphenol-A in baby bottles and sippy cups!

By signing this bill, Minnesota became the first state to ban the use of Bisphenol-A in any product.

Planned Parenthood is thrilled to be part of the Healthy Legacy Coalition; the driving force behind these landmark pieces of legislation.  

Last week, I sat down with Healthy Legacy Coalition Coordinator, Peter Starzynski, to talk about the Bisphenol-A ban immediately following the Governor’s signature.  Listen to the podcast below or subscribe to our podcast for free in itunes.

 Make sure to check out Healthy Legacy's website for info on safer products.

 

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Obama's abortion 'common ground', Star Tribune 5.20.09

Planned Parenthood seeks injunction, Argus Leader 5.21.09

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What happened this session?

•    Governor Signs Bisphenol-A Ban and Toxic Free Kids Act
•    Family Planning Special Projects
•    Anti Choice Initiatives Defeated
•    Sex Ed Gets Informational Hearing

Governor Signs Bisphenol-A Ban and Toxic Free Kids Act

On May 8th, Governor Pawlenty made history by signing a bill that bans the chemical Bisphenol-A in baby bottles and sippy cups!  By signing this bill, Minnesota became the first state to ban the use of Bisphenol-A in any product.

Additionally, the Governor signed the Toxic Free Kids Act (TFKA).  This bill grants the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) the authority to review the safety of chemicals used in children’s products!

Planned Parenthood is thrilled to be part of the Healthy Legacy Coalition; the driving force behind these landmark pieces of legislation.  

Planned Parenthood sat down with Healthy Legacy Coalition Coordinator, Peter Starzynski, to talk about the Bisphenol-A ban immediately following the Governor’s signature.  Listen to the podcast below or subscribe to our podcast for free in itunes.

Family Planning Special Projects (FPSP)

Since 1978, the Minnesota Department of Health has supported healthy families through Family Planning Special projects (FPSP).  Today, more than 27,000 women, men and teens receive affordable health care services through FPSP each year. Without it, they often receive no health care at all.

Planned Parenthood works in coalition with SafPlan to ensure that family planning funding remains a health care priority for the state of Minnesota.

One of the bills signed into law by the Governor this year was the Health and Human Services (HHS) appropriations bill which included full funding for FPSP.  However, FPSP remains vulnerable as the Governor intends to use his power to “unallot” in an effort to balance the state’s budget.

It's unclear just when we'll know the final decision regarding FPSP funding.  We’ll keep you informed as we get more information.

Anti-Choice Amendments Defeated

Every year, anti-choice forces introduce legislation that undermines women’s health care and access to the full range of reproductive health services.  This year, we saw several anti-choice initiatives in the form of amendments to the omnibus Health and Human Services bill.  Thankfully, all of these amendments were defeated in both the House and Senate!

Sex Ed Gets Informational Hearing

We learned last year that Governor Pawlenty would likely not sign the Responsible Family Life and Sexuality Education bill.  While this is a disappointment, it doesn’t preclude Planned Parenthood and the Coalition for Responsible Sex Ed from continuing to bring the issue in front of legislators.

This year, the sex ed bill was sponsored by Representative Frank Hornstein and Senator Sandy Pappas.  Senator Pappas has carried this bill for several years, but with the retirement of Rep. Neva Walker last year we were in need of a new sponsor on the House side.  Rep. Frank Hornstein immediately took up the bill and was a wonderful advocate.  

The bill received an informational hearing this year, and testimony focused on two important studies by the Centers for Disease Control and the Minnesota Department of Health.  These two studies underscore the need for medically-accurate, age-appropriate sexuality education in public schools.  Many legislators were astounded by the rising rate of STIs in Minnesota, and we are confident that the 2010 legislative session will see more action on this bill.

All of your calls and emails made a huge difference! Without your help, we wouldn't have accomplished nearly as much!

Stay Connected

 

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A national shift in the opinion about abortion, MPR 5.19.09

Session Fails N.D. Women, by Tim Stanley and Amy Jacobson, Grand Forks Herald 5.19.09

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by Nikki

Director of Volunteer Programs

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota 

It’s the economy, stupid. Yikes! Have we started using that old catchphrase again? The statistics blaring from my radio make me want to shut it off. Unemployment is climbing up near 9% - almost 16% if you consider the underemployed and those who have given up on looking for jobs. Pretty depressing stuff, but if you’re in this boat at least you know you’re not alone. What to do while you’re waiting for that next interview? I know, I know, sitting on your couch and watching another episode of Tyra does seem awfully appealing. But do you really need to see her try to sing or dance really awfully while embarrassing her guests yet another time? No!
 
A lot of folks are filling their time by volunteering and interning, and more importantly, also filling any gaps that might show up on their resumes while they search for jobs (because although it may be funny to do so, you really shouldn’t say that from 11/08-5/09 you were a professional bon-bon tester and daytime television quality assurance professional). Instead, why not say you spent your summer interning as a Recruiting Assistant in a Human Resources department? Or coordinating marketing and outreach efforts for a three-state health care provider? Volunteering as an escort to ensure patients enter our clinics safely and with dignity?
 
So put that remote down! Judge Judy can wait for another day! Contact our Volunteer Program now at 612.821.6113 or (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and we’ll find something fun – and fulfilling – to occupy your time!

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by Rachel

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Today is the final day of the legislative session; it appears that the Minnesota Legislature and Gov. Tim Pawlenty are at a standstill regarding the budget. One of the main disagreements stems from the line-item vetoes eliminating health care coverage to many Minnesotans. Minnesota Health and Human services reports that more than 86,000 adults and 26,000 children in Minnesota could lose health-care coverage after Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s budget cuts. 

According to the Pioneer Press, the $250 million cut to health and human services programs that the governor is seeking would be in addition to the possible elimination of the General Assistance Medical Care program.  These cuts would come on top of $503 million in cuts already in a joint House and Senate health and human services bill signed by Pawlenty, putting the total cut to state health care spending in excess of $1.1 billion.

All of these proposed cuts come on the tails of a report from the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius that found women face higher costs for health insurance and are more likely to lack health insurance. With 24 percent of single women and 12 percent of married women without health insurance currently, Gov. Pawlenty’s proposed cuts would be especially detrimental to women’s health in this state.  Any physician will
tell you that you that providing preventative health care (covered by most health insurance carriers) save lives and money in the long run.

These cuts will hinder this care for many Minnesotans, pushing us to use emergency rooms more and more frequently.  This will place additional strain on our states hospitals, with many hospitals stating that these cuts will also significantly affect their ability to care for the public and will result in layoffs, adding to Minnesota’s economic downturn. 

This is not the time to gut the funding for our social services and safety net.  Governor Pawlenty needs to find other ways to pay for his tax cuts. The Invest in Minnesota campaign lays out some common sense solutions to helping balancing our state’s budget and pulling the Minnesota economy out of this downward turn.  We need permanent solutions to our budget issues, not just borrowing and amounting additional debt.
 

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St. Paul — Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) applauds the Department of Health and Human Services for a new report, released during National Women’s Health Week, placing a spotlight on the impact that the nation’s health care crisis is having on women, particularly women of childbearing age. The report, titled "Roadblocks to Health Care: Why the Current Health Care System Does Not Work for Women" states that "women are more vulnerable to high health care costs…. (because) women’s reproductive health requires more regular contact with health care providers, including yearly Pap test, mammograms, and obstetric care."  

“The report from Secretary Sebelius underscores the real need to ensure that women have access to quality, affordable reproductive health care as part of any health reform effort,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz..  “The findings of the report reaffirm what we see firsthand at Planned Parenthood health centers every day, when women turn to us for affordable, accessible, high-quality preventive care,” Stoesz said.

In Planned Parenthood clinics across Minnesota, PPMNS has seen a surge in the number of women who have lost their jobs and insurance coverage, are worried about job loss or are returning to us for care during these tough economic times. In the past year, PPMNS has seen a 54% increase in demand for long term contraception.  “Women can do the math. They know if they are about to lose their insurance, if their hours are being cut back, that reliable long term contraception makes fiscal sense,” said Stoesz. Nearly three quarters of all PPMNS patients are uninsured.

As the HHS report states, women are more vulnerable to high health care costs because women’s reproductive health requires more regular contact with health care providers, including yearly Pap test, mammograms, and obstetric care. Planned Parenthood health centers across Minnesota are seeing an increase in patients who have lost their jobs, health insurance or who no longer have the money to pay for lifesaving medical care. Some women are deferring annual exams including preventive cancer screenings and buying fewer cycles of contraception.

According to the Women's Research and Education Institute, women of childbearing age spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men, in part because of reproductive health-related supplies and services. A recent survey conducted for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that women are delaying their annual exams as a result of the economic downturn.

These tough economic times are especially difficult for women struggling to pay for basic health care. Family planning centers, like Planned Parenthood, serve as an entry point tens of thousands of Minnesota women. Guttmacher reports that six in 10 clients consider family planning centers their main source of health care. Oftentimes, it is their first interaction with the country’s health care system.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Well, the North Dakota legislative session came to a close this week.  Not only was it a record long session, it was also very busy for Planned Parenthood. I spoke with Amy Jacobson, the North Dakota Public Affairs Manager for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Tim Stanley, Senior Director of Government and Public Affairs for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, about how the session went, including how the "personhood" bill was defeated, and what the plans are until the next session.

Listen using the player below:

 

Or subscribe to our podcast in itunes HERE.

Stay Connected with North Dakota

 

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Ends Ineffective Abstinence-Only Programs, Provides New Funding for Evidence-Based Comprehensive Sex Education

“President Obama’s budget makes clear that the government will no longer waste federal dollars on ineffective abstinence-only programs that fail to reduce the number of teen pregnancies and do nothing to keep teens healthy and safe,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz.
 
“We applaud the administration for rejecting failed abstinence-only programs that have cost taxpayers more than 1 billion dollars. The administration’s investment in evidence-based sex ed programs proven to help prevent teen pregnancy is a common sense, effective solution that puts the health of young people first,” Stoesz said.

President Obama’s budget completely eliminates funding for the Community Based Abstinence Education (CBAE) program and the Title V Abstinence Education program for states, saving the federal government $149 million.

In addition, President Obama’s budget includes $178 million in new funding for evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs. Of that, $75 million is designated for “programs that replicate the elements of one or more teenage pregnancy prevention programs that have been proven through rigorous evaluation to delay sexual activity, increase contraceptive use (without increasing sexual activity), or reduce teenage pregnancy”; and $25 million is slated for research and development of new and innovative strategies for preventing teen pregnancy.

President Obama’s budget also provides a $10 million increase in the Title X program, the nation’s family planning program, for a total of $317 million. The Title X family planning program provides basic health care to more than five million women and families across the U.S. However, funding has not kept pace with inflation, and more than 17 million women are in need of publicly funded family planning services. President Obama’s budget also includes a provision to expand family planning under Medicaid, which would extend family planning coverage to millions more women. 

Expanding family planning under Medicaid has been one of Planned Parenthood’s top priorities. Also known as the Medicaid Family Planning State Option, it would simply allow states to expand their Medicaid family planning services, including cancer screenings and other preventive care, to more women in need, without having to go through the burdensome Medicaid waiver process.
 
The Medicaid Family Planning State Option would have a significant impact on women’s health and is vital to expanding care to the millions of women who are losing their jobs and/or their health insurance in this economic downturn. According to the Congressional Budget Office, this provision would provide coverage to 2.3 million low-income women by 2014. A study by the Guttmacher Institute finds that this flexible option would help 500,000 women avoid unintended pregnancy.

“We commend the investment in women’s health and the commitment to make family planning and basic health care services, including lifesaving cancer screenings, more accessible and affordable to millions of low-income women and their families,” said Stoesz.

 

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by Sarah Stoesz

President and CEO

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota 

In a new report, the Center for American Progress's Nayla Kazzi breaks down the current health care crisis and highlights some startling numbers.

Kazzi writes that employers have shed 5.1 million jobs in the last 15 months and estimates that "2.4 million workers have lost the health coverage their jobs provided since the start of the recession,” based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Further, she points out that approximately 1.3 million of these losses have occurred in the last four months. More than 320,000 Americans became uninsured in March alone, which amounts to more than 10,000 workers a day.

Add to that the fact that more than 45 million Americans have no health insurance and an additional 25 million are underinsured, meaning they have insurance, but it does not adequately cover their medical expenses.

The demand for health care is urgent and the value of prevention, a cornerstone of Planned Parenthood services, is self-evident. Planned Parenthood is a preventive health care provider that thousands of low income women and families rely on in our region. We understand that investing in prevention helps reduce health care costs overall. And preventive care will ultimately make coverage more affordable for Americans.

We see the fallout from the economic downturn every day in our clinics across Minnesota. We see women who have lost jobs and the insurance coverage that they rely upon putting off much- needed health care, women who are worried about being laid off opting for longer-term birth control and scrimping to afford the basic health care that many of us take for granted.

We all have a responsibility to fix America’s broken health care system so that it’s affordable, accessible, high quality, comprehensive and culturally relevant.

All of us benefit from healthy communities and healthy families, in which every person has access to high-quality, affordable and confidential health care from a provider of their choice.

Ensuring such access is a critical step in eliminating inexcusable health care disparities experienced by so many in this country. We support health care reform that prioritizes prevention and ensures that all individuals have the information and services they need to stay safe and healthy.

And we must recognize that government can’t do it alone. We need to empower women and their families to make informed decisions about their health care needs. At Planned Parenthood, we’ll continue to work toward meaningful and equitable health care reform and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing affordable, accessible health care to women and families, no matter their ability to pay.

 

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On Tuesday, a week after the Minnesota Senate passed the BPA Free Baby products bill, the Minnesota House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly, 126-5 in support of this bill that would phase out the harmful toxin bisphenol-A (BPA) from baby bottles and "sippy" cups. As you know, BPA has been linked to breast and prostate cancer, reproductive disorders, learning disabilities, and much more and it is used in our children's products. Minnesota would be the first state in the US to place restrictions on the use of bisphenol A!

Furthermore, this past Monday the Minnesota house and senate voted overwhelmingly to pass the Toxic Free Kids Act. This bill would grant authority to the Minnesota Department of Health to create a list of toxic chemicals so we can be more informed about the products we use.

What does this all Mean?  Governor Pawlenty now has the ability to protect the health of children in Minnesota but he needs to hear from YOU!

It's simple: just call him and tell him that Minnesotan's want a Governor that protects the health of children. And ask: Can we count on you to be that governor and support the BPA Free Baby Products bill and the Toxic Free Kids Act?

Governor Pawlenty's Phone Number: (651)  296-3391
Feel free to call in the evening and just leave a message!

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U.S. Has Highest Rate of Teen Pregnancies Among the Most Developed Nations

In recognition of the eighth annual National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) today called for a renewed commitment to comprehensive, medically accurate sex education programs to reduce the alarming rate of unintended teen pregnancies in this country.

“Teens deserve honest, accurate, age-appropriate information about how to protect themselves,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz. “They need sex education that provides information about healthy communication, responsible decision making, as well as abstinence and contraception as ways to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.”

The U.S. teen birthrate increased for the second year in a row, according to data released in March by the National Center for Health Statistics. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy reports the U.S. has the highest rates of teen pregnancy among comparable countries. An estimated 750,000 American teens become pregnant each year.

As a trusted health care provider and educator, Planned Parenthood knows firsthand the power of education to help teens make responsible decisions about their health.

Providing teens and young people with the information they need to make responsible decisions is the commonsense solution to reducing unintended teen pregnancy. Numerous studies have analyzed abstinence-only programs and found them to be ineffective.

A study conducted by the University of Washington found that teens who had comprehensive sex education were 50 percent less likely to become pregnant than teens who had no sex education or who were in abstinence-only programs.  A study by The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy reports that two-thirds of the examined sex education programs that focus on both abstinence and contraception had a positive effect on teen sexual behavior. And a 2008 Guttmacher Institute report found that most abstinence programs did not delay initiation of sexual activity.

President Barack Obama has consistently supported comprehensive and age-appropriate sex education. As a senator, President Obama was an original co-sponsor of the Prevention First Act, which would ensure that all taxpayer-funded federal programs are medically accurate and include information about contraception.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

If I had a dime for every 2010 Gubernatorial candidate in Minnesota, I’d be a rich!  Well, perhaps that’s an exaggeration—- but I would have ATLEAST 80 cents! For those of you playing along at home that means eight known, pro-choice candidates have declared their candidacy for Governor of Minnesota and we’re expecting more to declare any day. And that’s not all—- there are 37 other Gubernatorial races in 2010. Yowza!

Right now there are 20 anti-choice Governors, 18 pro-choice Governors, and 12 are “mixed.”  How amazing would it be if we could continue the pro-choice momentum from our 2008 election into a 2010 election of a pro-choice Governor in Minnesota?

(answer: really amazing)

You can help make that happen. How? By attending our upcoming Action Fund fundraiser, aptly named “Off to the Races!”, on May 18th at 5:30 in Downtown, Minneapolis.  Our guest, Nathan Daschle, Executive Director of the Democratic Governors Association, will help us “figure the odds” for the Minnesota Governors race, as well as the other 37 gubernatorial races in 2010.  

Sound savvy? Timely? Well that’s exactly what the Politics in Minnesota Weekly Report (Volume 4, Issue 43) had to say!

Pro Choice Savvy

Got to hand it to Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota South Dakota (PP): The group conceived of and will execute a timely theme for its spring fundraiser. At a time when DFLers seeking their party's endorsement for governor can no longer caucus in a phone booth, PP's fundraiser will feature Nathan Daschle, the executive director of the Democratic Governors Association.

The stakes are high—with our pro-choice majority in the house and senate, imagine all the awesome things we could get done with a pro-choice Governor! Help raise money for Planned Parenthood’s action fund by attending this spectacular event to help ensure that we elect a pro-choice Governor in 2010.

Click here for more information and to register.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Hey Friends,
 
Remember the Good Friday Protest earlier this month? Well, today we’re featuring a video about this year’s Good Friday protest that drew nearly a thousand anti-choicers, as well as a sizable group of supporters who marched in solidarity with Planned Parenthood.



 

You can subscribe to our video/audio podcast in itunes here.
 
Thanks to all those Planned Parenthood supporters who made this such a positive, productive day!

Stay Connected

 

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(St. Paul) Since taking office, the president has shown his commitment to women’s health care on a wide range of issues, from repealing the global gag rule, restating his commitment to protecting women’s reproductive health and rights, creating a White House Council on Women and Girls, expanding access to affordable birth control, and calling for evidence-based, medically accurate sex education.

“It’s been a tremendous 100 days for those of us committed to strengthening women’s health care and ensuring that young people have the information and care they need to become healthy and productive adults.  Health care decisions are now being driven by sound science and not political ideology,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz.

“The president’s determination to make women’s health a priority is vitally important, given that America currently leads the most developed countries in the world in the rate of teenage pregnancies, at least one in four teenage girls has a sexually transmitted infection that could alter the course of her life, and an estimated 750,000 teenagers will become pregnant this year,” Stoesz said.

To mark the 36th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, President Obama issued a strong statement in support of women’s health, saying, “We are united in our determination to prevent unintended pregnancies, reduce the need for abortion, and support women and families in the choices they make. To accomplish these goals, we must work to find common ground to expand access to affordable contraception, accurate health information, and preventative services.”

These tough economic times are especially difficult for women struggling to pay for basic health care. According to the Women's Research and Education Institute, women of childbearing age spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men, in part because of reproductive health-related supplies and services.

Americans are doing the best they can to make healthy decisions that protect themselves and their families, but a new study from the Center for American Progress indicates 14,000 Americans are losing health coverage every day, making access to basic reproductive health care more important than ever.

“As the region’s most trusted reproductive health care provider and advocate, Planned Parenthood is committed to ensuring that all Americans have access to the quality, affordable health care services they deserve,” said Stoesz.

President Obama’s First 100 Days: A Summary

• -Health Care Reform — President Obama convened the White House Forum on Health Care Reform, signaling his commitment to ensuring every American has access to quality, affordable health care.
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• -Affordable Birth Control —The president signed legislation to restore access to affordable birth control for millions of college students and low-income women, and help ensure access to affordable contraception for millions of women, especially in these tough economic times.
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• -Budget Priorities — In his proposed budget, the president included a commonsense Medicaid waiver to expand family planning under Medicaid and called for evidence-based, medically accurate sex education.
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• - Global Gag Rule —President Obama overturned the global gag rule and once again allowed millions of women around the world access to critical reproductive health care services.
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• -HHS Midnight Rule — The Obama administration began the process of rescinding the Bush administration’s midnight HHS regulation that limits the rights of patients to receive complete and accurate health care information and services.
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• -Secretary of State — With the appointment of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, President Obama signaled his commitment to approach the issues of women’s health and rights, family planning, and global poverty with the seriousness and commitment they deserve. Secretary Clinton understands that improving the status of women is not simply a moral imperative; it is necessary to building democracies around the globe.
  
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• -Health and Human Services Secretary — The president, nominated longtime champion of women’s health, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, to be the secretary of HHS.  Governor Sebelius has been a strong advocate for health care reform and has a proven track record of supporting increased access to affordable health care and commonsense prevention policies that improve health outcomes.
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• -White House Council on Women and Girls — The president established the White House Council on Women and Girls to focus on a wide range of issues facing American women and their families, including the high rate of unintended pregnancies and the alarming number of sexually transmitted infections.
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• -Plan B — Under the Obama administration, the FDA now supports over-the-counter access to Plan B (emergency contraception) for women 17 years and older.
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• -AIDS Outreach — President Obama has made a strong commitment to developing a comprehensive national HIV/AIDS strategy that includes all federal agencies. The strategy will be designed to reduce the number of HIV infections, increase access to health care, and reduce HIV-related health disparities to address the growing HIV/AIDS crisis among women and girls in the United States.
  

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For more than 80 years, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota has worked in our region to make sure all people have the information and the means to make free and responsible decisions about whether and when to have children.  Planned Parenthood operates 29 clinics in Minnesota and South Dakota, providing quality and affordable family planning, reproductive health care services and education to more than  60,000 women and men each year.    

Contact: Director of Media Relations 651-755-9557 

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PPMNS applauds Gov. Kathleen Sebelius’ confirmation as secretary of health and human services. She is an excellent choice to lead HHS and has a proven track record of increasing access to affordable health care.

As countless women and their families struggle to afford quality health care during these difficult economic times, the need for health care reform that improves health outcomes is immediate. Her ability to work in a bipartisan fashion will serve her well as the Obama administration and Congress tackle the critical issue of health care reform for American families. We look forward to working with her and the administration to expand access to care and lower health care costs.”

Read more about the Sebelius confirmation here.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

The anti-choicers are politicizing health care (again) in their active opposition of Governor Kathleen Sebelius as Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS).


Sebelius, a health policy expert, popular governor, and proponent for increased access to affordable health care, is also a strong supporter of women's reproductive rights making her a prime target for anti-choice attacks.

via Kay Steiger, rhrealitycheck

Last week, the Family Research Council, an anti-choice lobbying group, raised a stink about Sebelius's purported "ties" to Dr. George Tiller, one of Kansas' few late-term abortion providers. Last month, Tiller was acquitted of 19 counts of misdemeanors brought against him. But FRC, and now Senate Republicans, are objecting to Sebelius based on donations Tiller made to a 2002 political PAC that supported Sebelius in the primary for governor.

Despite bipartisan support and an impressive resume, many conservatives have been trying to stall and obstruct her confirmation.   The delay in Sebelius's confirmation is taking a toll on our ability to address current and future public health issues. Jeff Levi of Trust for America's Health explains:

Via NPR

Soon, however, HHS will need its political appointees in place for tasks such as asking Congress for more money. "We're still $870 million short with the original estimate for what would be needed to build our research and development capacity for pandemic flu," said Levi. "We have not given money to state and local health departments since fiscal year 2006 to support their pandemic preparedness. We're going to need to replenish the stockpile for anti-flu drugs. We need to build our supply of masks and respirators."  

Today, Sebelius is expected to be confirmed- and not a moment too soon.  We need a Secretary of HHS to hit the ground running to address the myriad public health issues we are currently facing. During this economic downturn as more and more people are losing their health care, it's vital we address health care reform immediately. After 8 years of neglect, it's time we have a strong advocate for the health of women and families as we reform our health care system.

Please urge your Senator to support the confirmation of Governor Sebelius.

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by Sarah Stoesz

President and CEO

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota 

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made a courageous statement during congressional testimony on Thursday. She stated a simple and powerful truth missing from Washington for far too long. Clinton affirmed the administration's commitment to ensuring reproductive rights and health as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.

From Tapped:

Yesterday, New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith asked her whether the Obama administration is seeking to "weaken or overturn pro-life laws and policies in African and Latin American countries," and whether the United States considers abortion as a component of reproductive rights and health. Smith knows the influence the United States can wield on this issue, since he's often used his office to bolster anti-abortion forces worldwide. In 2004, for example, when Uruguay moved to liberalize its abortion law, Smith faxed a letter, signed by five other Republican congressmen, to every member of Uruguay's Senate urging them to defeat the bill and not "legalize the violent murder of unborn children." It lost by four votes.

In response, Secretary Clinton highlighted her firsthand experience saying, "When I think about the suffering that I have seen of women around the world, I've been in hospitals in Brazil where half the women were enthusiastically and joyfully greeting new babies and the other half were fighting for their lives against botched abortions."

She continued, "I've been in African countries where 12 and 13-year-old girls are bearing children. I have been in Asian countries where the denial of family planning consigns women to lives of oppression and hardship."

Secretary Clinton concluded, to applause, that, "We are now an administration that will protect the rights of women, including their right to reproductive health care."

Watch it here.

 

Secretary Clinton's statement ushers in a new day for women's health, here and around the world. It signals that the U.S. is once again willing to lead the fight for equal access, rights and freedom for all women. When one in 10 pregnancies across the globe end in an unsafe abortion, this much is clear: the era of politicizing women's health has gone on for far too long

After nearly a decade, we have a Secretary of State courageous enough to stand for the values of the majority of Americans and protect the health and safety of women and families at home and across the globe.

And it couldn't have come a moment too soon.

 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Just wanted to wish everyone a very happy Earth Day!! “Why is Planned Parenthood wishing me a happy Earth day,” you might be asking?

Well around the country, Planned Parenthood is organizing and getting involved in many environmental issues, especially as they pertain to our environmental health!

Via RH Reality Check

…In the Pajaro Valley of California, Planned Parenthood of Mar Monte is organizing a community-based collaborative for farm workers and their families who are exposed to pesticides that may be contributing to high rates of miscarriage, infertility and early puberty…..

….Planned Parenthood of Northern New England recently launched a new website and is hosting a myriad of green events (Where is my Recycled Prom Dress?...)….

Planned Parenthood is even taking part in Earth saving activities in Thailand!

In northern Thailand, Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is collaborating with the conservation efforts of a small community caught up in the pressures of modernization and a fragile environment.

Here in Minnesota, we are currently working in coalition with Healthy Legacy, an organization focused on promoting healthy living through the use of chemical-free products.  This year at the Capitol we’ve been trying to pass a bill that would ban Bisphenol A  (BPA) from children’s products like baby bottles and sippy cups.  BPA is an endocrine disruptor (meaning it affects hormones) and has been linked to low sperm count, early onset puberty, miscarriages, reproductive health problems, and a wide array of other health conditions.  Babies and children are most susceptible to these toxins because they are still developing and they eat, drink, and breathe more pound for pound than do adults.  So it’s a pretty big deal that the receptacles that they drink from can be hazardous to their health.

The Baby Bottle Bill (HF326/SF247) has passed all its respective committees and will be coming to the floor for a vote in the near future.  Take action this Earth Day and sign our petition to encourage the passage of this bill! It’s a small step in getting these nasty toxins out of our environment, but it’s an extremely important part of greening up our everyday lives.

And for those of you living in the metro area, you might be interested in attending our Environmental Toxins Continuing Education night. A representative from Healthy Legacy will discuss environmental toxins, how they affect our health, legislative efforts underway to control negative impact of toxins on our environment and bodies, and what steps we can take to be healthy. MONDAY 5/11 6-8PM. RSVP by emailing (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

So get out there and do something positive for the environment today. And check back soon for news about the Baby Bottle Bill. With any luck, soon we'll be stocking Minnesota shelves with BPA-free children's products to keep our kids healthy!

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Looking for more ways to get involved? 

Upcoming Events

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS EDUCATION NIGHT
Join coalition partner Healthy Legacy for an education night about environmental toxins, how they affect our health, legislative efforts underway to control negative impact of toxins on our environment and bodies, and what steps we can take to be healthy. MONDAY 5/11 6-8PM.

Stay Connected 

 

 

 

by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

As you know, Minnesota is grappling with a nearly $5 billon budget deficit and cuts to many vital programs are imminent. The Family Planning and Special Projects (FPSP) grant program, for example, is facing a 20% cut.  FPSP funds provide a safety net for thousands of Minnesotans who can’t afford to receive health care elsewhere. Not only that, preventative programs like FPSP actually save money in the long run and help improve the lives of Minnesotans at the same time.

There are many other important programs that are also on the chopping block.  Trying to dig ourselves out of the deficit solely by making cuts to programs that Minnesotan’s rely on is not just irresponsible—it’s not fair. Raising revenue has to be part of the solution to get Minnesota back on track. Minnesotans need a tax system where everyone pays their fair share and we can continue to provide the high level of public services on which Minnesotans depend.

Today, April 21st, Planned Parenthood is participating with other organizations in a broad coalition effort to make sure that legislators know that constituents support revenue raising to create a balanced solution to the budget.

Please, take a few minutes to call your State Senator and State Representative today and deliver them the following message:

“My name is _______________ and I am a constituent in your district. I am calling to let you know that I support raising revenues fairly. We cannot solve the current budget shortfall without adequate funding for public services that Minnesotans count on to make ends meet. We need a balanced solution, including a balanced tax system where everyone pays their fair share. ”

Click HERE to Look up your State Rep and Senator’s Contact Number here and let them know that it’s time we have a balanced tax system.
 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Well, perhaps you were there, or perhaps you pledged a protester (or perhaps both), but regardless you’ve probably heard A LOT about Good Friday from us recently. I’m here to report back and let you know that, as the subject reads, our Good Friday Solidarity Event was a big success!

As you know, every Good Friday large groups of anti-choicers protest outside of our Highland Park clinic. But in response, nearly 600 (a new record!)  Planned Parenthood supporters attended our peaceful solidarity event, sending a clear message:  Planned Parenthood is an important part of this community, providing more than 300,000 units of contraception, nearly 20,000 breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings, and offering the full range of reproductive health care options to our region. AND we’ve got PLENTY of supporters who stand by the work Planned Parenthood does!

Our supporters also came through by donating several carloads of food to a local food shelf for the food drive Planned Parenthood organized as part of the day’s events. Thank you to all who contributed!!!

And what about Pledge a Protester? Perhaps you already read in the Minnesota Independent that the “Archbishop inadvertently generates $14K in Planned Parenthood donations.” Actually, it was $14,172 to be precise! Yes, thanks to our Pledge a Protester Campaign, our supporters stood up once again, raising vital funds for our Highland Park Clinic.

A HUGE, HEARTFELT thanks to all of our supporters!! I’d call this year’s Good Friday Event, the ultimate in making lemonade out of lemons. 

Check back for a video about this year’s Good Friday early next week.  OR just subscribe to our podcast in itunes and forget the “checking back.”

OR stay connected by:

Following us on Twitter
Subscribe to our blog
Fan us on Facebook or Myspace

One more time, thanks to everyone who helped make this year’s Good Friday a tremendous success!

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Archbishop Nienstedt joins anti-abortion demonstration, MPR 4.10.09

'Personhood' bill fails, Bismarck Tribune 4.4.09

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St. Paul, MN -- Tomorrow, Friday April 10, hundreds will gather to protest outside of the Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul in an organized attempt to harass and intimidate patients in need of essential health care services. The protests, led by Pro-Life Action Ministries, have occurred every year for more than two decades.

"Planned Parenthood has served Minnesotans for more than 80 years, providing health care, education and advocacy to women and families across the state,” said Planned Parenthood President and CEO Sarah Stoesz.  “PPMNS has done more to prevent unintended pregnancy and the need for abortion than any of the groups that protest outside our doors,” Stoesz said.

“Last year alone, PPMNS provided more than 300,000 units of contraception and nearly 20,000 breast cancer and cervical cancer screenings to women across our region. Every day we work to strengthen the health and well being of women and families through strengthening public health and broadening access to preventive care,” said Stoesz.

Minnesotans have joined with Planned Parenthood to support its work during the protest. A multi-faith pro-choice prayer service will be held by a diverse group of religious organizations seeking to show support for PPMNS and the women we serve.
The service will be held at 10:00 a.m.

Supporters have chosen to “Pledge- a- Protestor” this year, designating a pledge amount for each protestor that shows up outside of the clinic on Friday. The money raised will assist Planned Parenthood in it’s commitment to the patients it serves. Staff and supporters of PPMNS are also asked to bring items for a food drive to benefit a local food shelf.

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Bismarck — Today the North Dakota Senate defeated HB 1572 by a margin of 29 to 16.  

If passed, HB 1572 could have outlawed contraception as well as medical procedures used to treat tubal pregnancies and infertility, impacting thousands of laws in the North Dakota Century Code.

“This poorly constructed legislation would have had a profound impact on the state, affecting everything from when property rights are granted, to inheritance rights, to access to the courts,” said Tim Stanley, Senior Director of Government and Public Affairs for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS).

“This bill would have put the government in charge of personal health care decisions best left to women, their doctors and families—not politicians,” said Stanley.

HB 1572 was backed by national activist groups working to make North Dakota the epicenter of a heated national debate. Personhood USA backed HB1572 and unsuccessfully attempted to change the Colorado constitution with similar language last November. Colorado voters defeated the measure by 3 to 1.

North Dakotans from across the state testified against the bill, including in vitro fertilization doctors, an attorney, a member of the religious community and North Dakotans working on behalf of women and families.

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Looking for more ways to get involved?

Each year on Good Friday over 1,000 anti-choice protesters descend upon Planned Parenthood’s Highland Park clinic.  They carry graphic signs, as well as harass and intimidate our patients. Planned Parenthood has been providing accessible, affordable, and quality reproductive health care in Minnesota for 80 years.  We are an institution in this state, and have absolutely no intention of letting anyone try to close our doors or intimidate us.

There are two BIG ways that you can help show your support for Planned Parenthood:

Live in the Metro area? Consider volunteering on Good Friday! 

Live outstate or can't make it to volunteer on Good Friday? Pledge a Protester! 

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Looking for more ways to get involved?

Each year on Good Friday over 1,000 anti-choice protesters descend upon Planned Parenthood’s Highland Park clinic.  They carry graphic signs, as well as harass and intimidate our patients. Planned Parenthood has been providing accessible, affordable, and quality reproductive health care in Minnesota for 80 years.  We are an institution in this state, and have absolutely no intention of letting anyone try to close our doors or intimidate us.

There are two BIG ways that you can help show your support for Planned Parenthood:

Live in the Metro area? Consider volunteering on Good Friday! 

Live outstate or can't make it to volunteer on Good Friday? Pledge a Protester! 

Stay Connected

Follow us on Twitter

Subscribe to our blog or podcast

Fan us on Facebook or Myspace
 

 

(St. Paul) According to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH), rates of sexually transmitted infections continue to rise in the state, based on the 2008 Year End Data on sexually transmitted infections.

“STI rates have been rising for more than a decade in Minnesota. This is a serious public health problem and we need to focus on solutions,” said Connie Lewis, Vice President of External Affairs for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS).

According to the report, chlamydia has increased by 7 percent, continuing a disturbing trend. Sexually transmitted infections have reached their highest level ever in Minnesota with the rate of chlamydia doubling over the past thirteen years. In Minnesota, STIs are the most commonly reported communicable diseases accounting for over 60% of all notifiable diseases reported to MDH.  

PPMNS provides more STI/HIV testing than any other reproductive health care provider in the state. In 2008, Planned Parenthood administered nearly 56,000 STI tests in communities across the state.

“For the past two years, PPMNS has led the effort to advance legislation that would help to reverse this trend. Addressing this public health imperative through common sense public policy, accessible health care and fact-based education is our priority,” Lewis said.

“We see the toll the epidemic of sexually transmitted infections has taken in our health centers every day,” said Lewis. It’s critical that the state and the health care community work together to reverse these rising rates,” said Lewis.

 

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Senate Judiciary Committee Gives Sweeping and Intrusive HB1572 a Do Not Pass Recommendation

St. Paul — Today the North Dakota Senate Judiciary Committee gave HB 1572 a 5- 0  Do Not Pass recommendation. The legislation now moves to the full senate for a vote.

If passed by the Senate HB 1572 could outlaw contraception as well as medical procedures used to treat tubal pregnancies and infertility, potentially impacting thousands of laws in the North Dakota Century Code.

“We thank the judiciary committee for seeing 1572 as a broad, overreaching, bill, which would embroil the state in a legal, medical and bureaucratic nightmare,”  said Deb Arnold, North Dakota Advisory Committee member for Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS).

“We have every hope that the state Senate will follow the lead of the Judiciary Committee, quickly discharge 1572 and help get the legislature back to the business of moving the state forward on the numerous issues before it,” Arnold said.

North Dakotans from across the state testified against the bill, including in vitro fertilization doctors, an attorney, a member of the religious community and North Dakotans working on behalf of women and families.

The senate is expected to vote on the measure in the coming weeks.
 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Every year  on Good Friday, thousands of anti-choice protesters descend on our St. Paul Highland Park Clinic for a Good Friday day-long protest.  It’s their largest protest of the year.

 PLEDGE A PROTESTER!

 

 

 
But with your help, their efforts will backfire.  When you contribute to our ‘Pledge a Protester’ campaign, you help guarantee that every protester they bring will raise money for Planned Parenthood.
All of the money raised will go directly support the work we do at the Highland Clinic.  
 
Together, we can show the anti-choice protesters that no matter how many people they bring, our supporters are strong and committed - and we refuse to surrender our clinic to their narrow views - not even for one day.
 

CLICK HERE TO PLEDGE A PROTESTER!

 

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by Rachel

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

One of the biggest challenges to the pro-choice cause is funding and this is especially true in this economy. Many, if not all, states face budget shortfalls.  These shortfalls will result in cuts to many public programs including family planning.  Equal access to affordable family planning and women’s health care is even more important today and will save money in the long run.

Yesterday, I attended Minnesota's Pro-choice lobby day, which reiterated to me how important and vulnerable access to health care can be. These services especially benefit those who are worse off in our society and may not be able to voice their opinions.  We must not forget the critical importance of choice for all, not just those who can afford it.  We must speak up for those who lack a voice and write to your representatives. Appeal to their nature to lift up our society and help those who are most in need. Write and tell them how important access to affordable women’s health care and family planning is to their voters and districts. Share a story of when access to affordable and open women’s health care was important to you.  Your representatives are there to represent and promote your needs. It is easier to care and fight for a cause when you have a personal story you can relate to it.  Make sure your representatives know those stories too.

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Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota applauded today’s ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York ordering the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to expand access to emergency contraception (EC), also known as Plan B.    

“Today’s federal court ruling puts women’s health ahead of politics,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz. “We must do everything we can to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and protect the health and safety of all women.”

Specifically, the court ruled that the FDA must make Plan B available over the counter to women age 17 and older within 30 days. Currently, Plan B is available over the counter to women age 18 and older, and with a prescription to women younger than 18. The court also ordered the FDA to reconsider whether minors under age 17 should be permitted to obtain emergency contraception over the counter.

“It is appalling that the U.S. has the highest rate of teen pregnancy among the most developed countries in the world.  Approximately 750,000 teens will get pregnant this year, and this ruling can help reduce this alarming statistic,” said Stoesz. “Studies show that teenagers use emergency contraception responsibly and don't rely on it as a regular method of birth control,” Stoesz said.
 
The court ruling criticizes the FDA’s decisions regarding Plan B, saying that it was infected by “political considerations, delays, and implausible justifications for decision making,” “pressure emanating from the White House, and the obvious connection between the confirmation process of two FDA Commissioners and the timing of the FDA’s decisions.”

Research shows that increased access to contraception does not increase or encourage sexual activity among teens.

Emergency contraception (EC) pills contain hormones that reduce the risk of pregnancy when started within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse. The sooner EC is administered, the better it works, making timely access critically important. And studies show that women do not rely on emergency contraception as a regular method of birth control.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

The Star Tribune has a great piece about the  evolving abortion debate and how new strategies were implemented in South Dakota to help defeat last year’s abortion ban.

Here’s just a snippet:

William Anderson, a political scientist at the University of South Dakota, said voters became engaged in morally complex questions. The anti-abortion side "assumed people would see this in black-and-white terms," he said. "But the grays were a lot grayer than anyone had ever imagined."

President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota will be answering questions TODAY about the evolving strategy on the Strib’s Body Talk Blog. Leave your question or thoughts in the comment section of the Body Talk Blog.

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We will contact you in the near future with more details. 

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Check out Last Year's Good Friday Video!

by Amy

North Dakota Public Affairs Manager

Planned Parenthood, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Recently Representative Dan Ruby, the sponsor a North Dakota House Bill 1572, submitted a long overdue clarification to the Grand Forks Herald about his “equal rights for a fertilized egg” bill. Ruby repeatedly states that HB 1572 “simply” defines when life begins, it is “simply” a matter of science, and it “simply” will not intrude on women’s reproductive health care. Ruby is so very sly in his defense of HB 1572 that he goes so far as to say that his bill does not even “mention abortions”.

The bill does not contain language that even mentions abortion at all. It simply defines when life begins which, through scientific language, defines life to begin at conception. What is so harmful about that?

That’s interesting. Because recently, Representative Ruby was quoted in the Bismarck Tribune saying:

"I think North Dakota will be on the map to be the first state in recent years to mount a legitimate challenge to Roe v. Wade."

So it is about Roe v. Wade, but it has nothing to do with abortion? Sure.

So if this bill isn’t about abortion, then what is it about? As mentioned above, according to Representative Ruby, HB 1572 “simply” defines when life begins, it is “simply” a matter of science, and it “simply” will not intrude on women’s reproductive health care.

Well, I’m not sold on that either. The language of this bill is so vague and broad that it could impact access to birth control. Giving equal rights to a fertilized egg, as this bill would do, could cause women having miscarriages to face criminal investigations. In-vitro fertilization could be banned. This “simple” law could affect thousands of laws in North Dakota, from inheritance laws, to property rights, to access to the courts. There is nothing “simple” about HB 1572 bill and there is nothing “simple” about a direct challenge to Roe v. Wade.

North Dakotan's, sign the petition to defeat HB 1572! 

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Follow us on Twitter: ppNoDak

Fan us on Facebook: Planned Parenthood North Dakota Action Fund,

Friend us on Myspace: Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Subscribe to our blog or podcast

 

 

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by Rachel

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Yesterday, the Senate voted on the Appropriations bill that was introduced and vetoed under the Bush administration.  And guess what? It passed! This bill contains many measures funding common sense provisions supporting women’s reproductive health care, reducing unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.  It includes ensuring that abstinence-only funding is contingent on teaching scientifically accurate information and funding increases for domestic and international health programs. And it fixed the affordable birth control crisis! What  a fantastic victory!


The House was able to pass the bill, however, in the Senate many anti-choice amendments were proposed to strip the bill of many of the gains Planned Parenthood has fought for.  Senator DeMint (R-SC) filed an amendment to remove funding for affordable birth control.   The affordable birth control fix restores access to affordable birth control for college and low-income women that was removed inadvertently by the Deficit Reduction Act in 2005. 

This amendment never came up for a vote, but Senator DeMint then offered another amendment attempting to block the Obama administration from reversing the dangerous HHS regulation set by the Bush administration in the final hours before leaving office.  The Obama administration has issued an order to rescind the HHS Refusal Rule.  Senator Vitter (R-LA) also filed an amendment to block Title X funds from going to Planned Parenthood.  While this amendment did not go up for a vote many Senators were ready to defend Planned Parenthood and its mission. 

A final anti-choice amendment, introduced by Senator Wicker (R-MS) that would have restricted US funding to the United Nations Population Fund was defeated by the Senate.  Thankfully there are Senators that will stand up against anti-choice legislation.  With their help, and some luck, the omnibus  2009 Appropriations bill passed the Senate, and President Obama will undoubtedly sign it. A huge thanks goes out to all the legislators who supported and fought for these measures and another huge thank you goes out to all you fantastic activists who contacted your Senators and Representatives! This is an important step to investing in woman’s health as a priority in the United States 

Stay Connected

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Fan us on Facebook: Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota 

Friend us on Myspace: Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Subscribe to our blog or podcast

 

 

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St Paul — Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) today applauded the passage of legislation to make birth control affordable again for millions of women who obtain contraceptives at community health centers and college clinics.  The provision was included in the 2009 omnibus appropriations bill that passed the U.S. Senate late yesterday and the House of Representatives two weeks ago.

In 2005, Congress passed the Deficit Reduction Act, which tightened eligibility for nominally priced drugs.  In doing so, Congress inadvertently cut off safety-net providers and every college and university health center from obtaining contraception at a low cost, and passing on those savings to their patients. As a result, women have been paying up to 10 times more each month for basic contraception.

“We applaud Congress for righting a wrong that has restricted access to basic but critical preventive health care services, and left millions of women at risk of unintended pregnancy,” said Sarah Stoesz, PPMNS President and CEO.  “The passing of this legislation is a victory for women’s health and especially for women who have struggled to afford the rising costs of basic contraception in these tough economic times,” said Stoesz.

“These difficult economic times have particularly affected women struggling to pay for basic health care. With 14,000 Americans losing health coverage every day, access to basic health care — including affordable birth control — is more important than ever,” Stoesz said.

According to the Guttmacher Institute, women of childbearing age spend 68 percent more in out-of-pocket health care costs than men, in part because of reproductive health-related supplies and services.

Planned Parenthood began a nationwide grassroots campaign to restore affordable birth control in 2007, carrying the message of affordable birth control to members of Congress in an effort to raise awareness about the need for a common sense fix for women and families.

President Barack Obama has been a strong supporter of this commonsense fix; as a senator, he sponsored legislation to restore access to affordable birth control.

 

For more than 80 years, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota has worked in our region to make sure all people have the information and the means to make free and responsible decisions about whether and when to have children.  Planned Parenthood operates 29 clinics in Minnesota and South Dakota, providing quality and affordable family planning, reproductive health care services and education to more than  60,000 women and men each year.     

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Recently, in a blatant challenge to Roe v. Wade, the North Dakota House passed a bill that would give full rights to a fertilized egg.  Listen to the podcast below to learn more about the bill and its implications for North Dakota, and perhaps the nation. Also, look for ways to take action to make sure this bill gets put to rest in the Senate.

 

TAKE ACTION 

North Dakotans, Sign the Petition to encourage Senators to VOTE NO!!! You can also donate to the cause HERE.

Supporters in other states, spread the word about this bill by sending friends a link to this podcast.  Or donate here! 

Stay Connected

Follow us on Twitter: Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

Subscribe to our blog or podcast

 

 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Via Safer States

Suffolk County, NY, has become the first jurisdiction in the nation to ban bisphenol A in baby bottles and sippy cups. The county’s legislature passed the ban with a unanimous vote on Tuesday, according to a story in Newsday.

As we mentioned before, Bisphenol-A (BPA) has been linked to “early onset of puberty, low sperm counts, prostate and breast cancer, and an array reproductive health problems among other things.” The fact that steps are being taken to get this nasty chemical out of baby products is really good news! And how absolutely fantastic is it that this bill passed UNANIMOUSLY?? Way to go!

Right now, the state of Minnesota is also working on a bill which would ban BPA in baby bottles and sippy cups.  The bill has been moving through committees, and is currently awaiting a hearing Business, Industry, and Jobs committee.  Hopefully this news out of New York will help motivate our legislature to follow suit.

Keeping our kids toxin free seems like a good idea to me!! If you think so too, sign our petition.

You can read more about the ban in Suffolk County, NY here.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

A couple weeks ago we reported that Chlamydia cases were on the rise (and more common than the flu!), but new data reveals that syphilis cases are also increasing. Early syphilis, when it is most infectious, is up 40% since 2007.

Syphilis often has very mild symptoms, so much so that they can go unnoticed. If left untreated, syphilis is a serious health risk. Every year, around 36,000 Americans contract syphilis.

Via the strib:

The most common risk factors reported were "meeting partners on the Internet, anonymous sex and no condom use," the Health Department said.

Aside from sexual abstinence, condom use, of course, is a major way to prevent getting syphilis, as well as other STIs.

With so many STI cases increasing Minnesota, I think it’s about time we take some swift action into solving the STI problem. This year Senator Marty is sponsoring a bill that would address this growing STI issue, increase funding for programs that cover testing and treatment, as well as set up a responsible sex ed program that would give teens the knowledge they need to make responsible decisions about their sexual health. If you think this sounds like good idea, then you should contact your legislator and ask them to support Senator Marty’s comprehensive prevention bill.

Again, via the strib 

Dr. Amy Gilbert, medical director at the Family Tree Clinic in St. Paul, said that while "the numbers are small now, the rate of increase raises the alarming possibility of many more people becoming infected in the coming years. Doctors haven't seen syphilis in a long time. We need to raise our awareness and remember to look for it."

Learn more about syphilis and its symptoms here.

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The Obama administration is taking the first step in rescinding a midnight regulation that undermines the country’s fragile health care system as well as patients’ access to health care information and services.

According to the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) website, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has sent a proposed rule titled “Rescission of the Regulation Issued by the Department of Health and Human Services on December 19, 2008, Implementing the Church Amendments (42 U.S.C. 300a-7), Section 245 of the Public Health Service” to OMB for review.

“Our priority is ensuring that the tens of thousands of patients we see every year receive complete and accurate health information and services,” said PPMNS President and CEO Sarah Stoesz. “In these difficult economic times and with more than 45 million Americans currently uninsured, it is critical that we work to increase, not limit, access to health care. When a patient walks into a hospital, pharmacy, or any health care center she should be confident she will receive complete and accurate health care information and services.”  

When the Bush administration proposed the Rule, roughly 200,000 U.S. citizens, federal and state elected officials, medical organizations, and health care advocacy and religious organizations submitted comments opposing the misguided rule, including

• •    a bipartisan coalition of more than 100 members of Congress
• •    a bipartisan group of governors, including Governors John Baldacci (D-ME), Chet Culver (D-IA), Jim Doyle (D-WI), Christine Gregoire (D-WA),  David Paterson (D-NY), M. Jodi Rell (R-CT), Edward Rendell (D-PA), and Ted Strickland (D-OH)
• •    a bipartisan group of attorneys general, including those from Arizona, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont
• •    state legislators from a number of states, including Oregon, Texas, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin
• •    nongovernmental organizations ranging from American Nurses Association, the American Medical Student Association, the American Social Health Association, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, and several prominent HIV/AIDS, international health, and gay rights organizations

 
In addition, the legal counsel and two commissioners from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) also submitted comments, explaining that the rule creates unnecessary confusion for the nearly 600,000 health care facilities it reaches.  

By allowing health insurance companies, hospitals, doctors, physicians, and health care workers of all kinds to deny patients vital health care information and services, without the patient even knowing, the rule undermines health care access and creates chaos in an already stressed health care system, particularly for low-income women and families whose options are already limited.

In January, Planned Parenthood filed legal action challenging the regulation. In addition, the Connecticut attorney general, joined by the attorneys general of California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Rhode Island filed a separate but parallel legal action challenging the regulation. These states have taken proactive steps in enacting legislation that protects patients’ access to vital health care services and information — for example, laws that guarantee rape survivors have access to emergency contraception in emergency rooms. The current HHS regulation poses a serious barrier to the states’ enforcement of their laws protecting patients.

Click HERE for more resources on opposition to HHS midnight rule.

Trackback:

Committee to review abortion bill Bismarck Tribune, 2.26.09

Let's hope our common sense prevails over fertilized egg bill Fargo Forum 2.22.09

This fight cynical, quixotic  Fargo Forum 2.22.09

Roundup: Colorado Lawmakers Propose Bill to Protect Birth Control RH Reality Check 2.20.09 

Group Associated With President Obama's Faith Office Blasts Pro-Life Bill Life News 2.19.09 

 

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by Shannon

Web Correspondent
South Dakota Community Organizer
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

On Tuesday, SB 134 – Contraceptive Equity – was defeated on the floor of the South Dakota Senate.

The measure had a good run. It was killed in committee but revived thanks to 13 Senators who stood up forcing a smoke out. Those same 13 Senators voted in favor of the measure on the floor Tuesday afternoon. Alas, we were 5 votes short. But, progress was made and the conversation continues.

Our work is far from over. A reduction in the number of unintended pregnancies in the state CAN be accomplished. Our coalition grows stronger each day. And, this bill is proof that there are people out there who may not all agree on certain things, but we all agree that we must do something to lower the incidence of unplanned pregnancies.

I would like to encourage you to thank your Senators and Representatives who sponsored this legislation. They are: Senators Turbak Berry, Heidepriem, Knudson, Adelstein, Jerstad, & Merchant, Representatives Cutler, Blake, Burg, Dennert, Dreyer, Fargen, Frerichs, Gibson, Lust, McLaughlin, Noem, Nygaard, Betty Olson, Putnam, Romkema, Solberg and Solum. Please participate in our action campaigns to thank these sponsors.

Please also thank these additional Senators who voted in favor of the bill: Bradford, Gillespie, Nelson, Vehle, Ahlers, Hunstad & Nesselhuf.

I also think it’s important to share our disappointment with the 22 Senators who voted against SB 134. They are: Senators Abdallah, Bartling, Brown, Dempster, Fryslie, Gant, Garnos, Gray, Hansen, Hanson, Haverly, Howie, Hunhoff, Kloucek, Maher, Miles, Novstrup, Olson, Peterson, Rhoden, Schmidt, & Tieszen. Please participate in our Action Campaign to share your thoughts with your Senator.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Whether or not you’ve been paying attention to the recount process and its subsequent trial, you probably know that we still are short one Senator in the great state of Minnesota.

When the official state-mandated recount process was over and the dust settled, our pro-choice candidate Franken was up 225 votes over then incumbent Norm Coleman.

Naturally, our former Senator Coleman filed a lawsuit.  I personally wished he would have followed his own advice and just stepped down, but it is his right to file a lawsuit, and surely another good close look at our process can’t hurt right?  We want this to be fair.

The tri-partisan panel continues to rule that Minnesota’s election was fair.  In the Star Tribune yesterday:

A series of court rulings have dealt the Republican long odds for overturning DFLer Al Franken's 225-vote lead. The three judges hearing the case have been only partly receptive to Coleman's bid to expand the field of ballots as he seeks more votes, and they brushed aside his claim of systemic problems with Minnesota elections.

This is great news, not only for Minnesotans who take pride in our reputation of having extremely fair and clean elections, but also for pro-choicers who hope to replace the anti-choice Norm Coleman in the Senate with a true champion for women’s reproductive rights.

Unfortunately, this process is far from over. In all likelihood, the case will be appealed. So stay tuned.

For a good run down of all the details, check out the Star Tribune.

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SB 134 which would require health insurance companies to include contraceptives as part of their prescription drug plans was brought back to life on the Senate Floor today.  Even though the Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted the bill to the 41st day, it was revived on the floor today.

Now, the bill will go in front of the entire Senate body on Tuesday afternoon.

Click here to contact your Senator TODAY and tell them to support contraceptive equity.

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There is a bill advancing in the North Dakota Legislature that is specifically crafted to challenge Roe v. Wade and that poses a very serious threat to women's health and reproductive rights. House Bill 1572 is intrusive, dangerous and simply goes to far. 

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The best way to insure that women continue to have safe and legal access to ALL reproductive health care options is to make sure that the people making the laws are pro-choice.  Planned Parenthood is busy this winter monitoring North Dakota legislation, and we need your help! House Bill 1572 places all of your reproductive rights on the line! Please join us to learn more about the real impacts of this legislation as well as what you can do to help stop this extremism.

On Saturday, February 28th Planned Parenthood MN, ND, SD Action Fund will host a Live Action Camp focused on grassroots activism.  This will be a day-long workshop (1:00 pm to 4:00 pm) where volunteers will learn valuable skills including:

• Choice Conversations: As you know, abortion and reproductive freedom are often divisive and difficult issues to talk about. We'll go through the basics of how to talk about reproductive health; focusing on finding common ground.
• Grassroots Organizing: What does grassroots organizing mean and why is it important? We will examine how grassroots activism empowers individuals and shifts the balance of power.
• Making your message clear: Sometimes engaging with your legislators can be a bit intimidating. This portion of the Live Action Camp will give you tips for communicating and sharing your personal story.
• How to successfully grow the movement: Identifying supporters and activating volunteers is one of the most important things we can so to advocate for our issues. In this session we will gain the skills and tools needed to get others involved.
• RALLY! We will end the day with a fun and energetic Rally on the streets of downtown Fargo. Together we will make signs in support of reproductive freedom, learn cool pro-choice chants, and stand together in solidarity.

If you'd like more information, or to sign up for the Grassroots Activism Live Action Camp, contact Amy Jacobson, Public Affairs Manager, at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call 701-526-0726.

 

 

The training will be held at the Fargo Planned Parenthood office located at 624 Main Avenue Suite 9 Fargo, ND 58103.

Help inspire more people to become active in the reproductive rights movement as a Contributing Web Correspondent for Planned Parenthood! Planned Parenthood is currently seeking writers and multimedia producers to contribute to our Planned Parenthood Advocate blog. The blog will contain information, views and stories from contributors living throughout Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Volunteers will be responsible for the creation of one written entry per week or one multimedia piece every other week, which will be posted as main features on the Planned Parenthood blog. Qualified volunteers will have superior writing or multimedia production skills (including video, audio or photo), work well independently, and communicate complex ideas and messages in a simple but nuanced way. Approximately three hour/week commitment required. Must submit writing samples and/or provide links to online video/audio/photo samples to apply.

For more information or to apply, contact the Volunteer Program at (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 612.821.6113.

 

by Shannon

Web Correspondent
South Dakota Community Organizer
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

Today, the Health and Human Services Committee of the South Dakota Senate killed SB 134. This piece of legislation would’ve required a health insurance company to cover contraceptives as part of its prescription drug plan, if it offered such a plan.

This was the only piece of prevention legislation introduced this year. This is the only piece of legislation that would’ve actually done something to reduce unintended pregnancies. The bill even included a religious exemption for churches and other religious employers.

This was common sense public policy. What a disappointment that our lawmakers and those who lobbied against this couldn’t see that.

All hope is not lost, however. The committee voted to move SB 134 to the 41st day. That means there is an opportunity to “smoke out” the bill to a vote on the full floor of the Senate. I am optimistic the votes are there to do it.

Stay tuned.

Trackback:

State lawmaker ready to challenge Roe v. Wade, Bismarck Tribune 2.19.09

The Catholic Crusade Against a Mythical Abortion Bill, TIME 2.19.2009

South Dakota Bill Would Require Contraception Coverage; Critics Argue Mandate Will Increase Costs, National Partnership for Women and Families 2.20.09 

 

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by Kristin

Web Correspondent 

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota  Action Fund

February 11th was the first Women’s Lobby Day in North Dakota history. It was an amazing experience not only as a participant, but also as an intern. The day included an introductory meeting which went over what this event means for the women of ND, a few bills that affect women everywhere, learning what a bill is, and even getting to meet seven of the female legislators. It was so inspirational to meet these women, I’m even thinking about running for office sometime in the future! Seeing the events in action made me realize how important it is to keep up the fight for women’s rights. The morning ended with a fantastic rendition of “Sisters doing it for Themselves,” by the Eurythmics and sung by Kris Kitko. This really got everyone pumped up!

Once the morning meeting was finished we had a quick lunch, where we met new people and wrote notes to the legislators, some even came out to eat and chat with us. Even though some of them did not give us the time we had hoped for, the legislators that did made the day that much more special. It was apparent that these men and women are no different than any of us. They are ordinary people, with a little more power over our rights – which can be changed once more pro-choice women get into office.

The day ended with everyone splitting up, and going into either the House of Representatives or the Senate sessions. This was an interesting part of the day. Just seeing how these sessions play out gives a lot of perspective on the process. It would have been better if they were actually voting on the issues that we went there for, but, unfortunately, that was out of our control!

BEST PART: I have to say the bus ride was my favorite part of the day! I have always loved taking busses, but this time it was so much more special. This is where I was able to meet new people and see their energy. The bus took off at 6 am, and yet it seemed that most people were wide awake, getting ready to make a difference at the capital. The positive feedback on the way to Bismarck and on the way home to Fargo was uplifting and empowering!

WORST PART: It was so disappointing for some of the women who were not able to meet their representative. It really annoyed me when one woman’s Senator wouldn’t give her the time of day. Senator Flakoll refused a request by a participant –from his own district- to meet with him to discuss why she was there. After this woman was told that he could not come and talk she just looked defeated. Nobody should feel that way about their representative.

On a positive note, it was so great to see so many people from such diversity show up for this event, especially since the weather was not kind to us. There were even a couple of kids there. The number one thing that I took from the day is that there will always be opposing women’s rights, especially when it comes to reproductive rights, so every woman needs to remember that the fight never ends. Just remember that it is completely worth it!

 

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by Amy

North Dakota Public Affairs Manager

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund 

Last week I had the honor of participating in North Dakota’s first ever Women’s Lobby Day at the Capital in Bismarck titled WE Rise: Women Empowered. The focus of the entire day was about women’s political participation. The North Dakota legislative body is only 15.6% women giving us ranking of 43rd nationally.  Nearly 100 women traveled from every corner of the state- braving treacherous winter conditions- to learn about the legislative process, to tour the Capital, and to meet with legislators.  The day was a remarkable success and one we hope to grow every Legislative session.

Highlight #1:

On the morning of Women’s Lobby Day the Senate Human Services Committee heard a bill which would protect mothers who breast-fed (SB 2344).  Several women who were participating in the Women’s Lobby Day sat in on the hearing and one even testified about her breast-feeding experiences.

Highlight #2

One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was the warm welcome participants received from the female legislators. Seven of the 22 women who serve in the North Dakota legislature were able to break away from committee hearings for a few minutes to address our group. They talked about the need for more women in elected office as well as the unique challenges (both professionally and personally) women face as legislators. And every single women legislator made a point to encourage the participants to think about running for office themselves.
 
Highlight #3

Throughout the day words of praise about the event from both participants and from legislators continued to flow.  The following is a testimonial we received from a women who attended the Women’s Lobby Day.

I attended the WE Rise event in Bismarck. As I sat listening to the welcome a flow of emotion overwhelmed me and I started to cry. I was crying because I could not believe a “woman like me” was actually there, at our state capitol along with some of the most respected women in our state.

You see, I am a survivor of domestic violence and if someone would have told me five years ago I would be here among these women I would have laughed. I have been out now for five years, but I was in it for 20. In those 20 years I was terrified of my abuser. Living in fear of your partner is a degrading feeling. I would hide in my closet when I heard the loud roar of his pickup coming in the driveway after a night of drinking. I would hide in that closet and pray the 23rd psalm over and over for strength to handle what was to happen when he walked through that door. Then I would sit outside the door of the bedroom listening to his snoring because when he was snoring I was able to breath. I would again pray the 23rd psalm to comfort me after the abuse.

I survived because of my faith in God and the will to give my children a better life. Slowly I got out and stayed out, but it is a long journey to where I am at today. It is a long journey to stability and it is a long journey to happiness. Just the day to day things that others may take for granted make me realize how happy I am now. Such as: sleeping in on Saturdays, buying something-anything, no matter how small- for myself, attending college, or simply reading a book are a few things I do now that I would never have done while with my abuser.

What WE Rise Lobby Day meant to me was “I truly am FREE! FREE to chose, FREE to live my life without abuse. FREE to be empowered and FREE to empower others.

When I graduate with my social work degree this May I will spend the rest of my life helping other survivors find their true beauty and worth. I will spend the rest of my life helping women to feel empowered just like I was at WE Rise Lobby Day. While I will never forget where I came from and my “closet of fear” I will also never forget where I am going.

Thank you so much for this opportunity and putting this event on. The magnitude of it was not lost on me. The women of the North Dakota Network have empowered me to realize we can make changes in our lives and in our laws.
 

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St. Paul —  In North Dakota, a bill to define a fertilized egg as a person has passed out of the house and will be debated by the Senate in the coming weeks.

HB 1572 was approved in the North Dakota house by a vote of 51-41. The bill was specifically crafted as a challenge to the Roe v Wade decision. HB 1572 could also outlaw contraception as well as medical procedures used to treat tubal pregnancies and infertility.

“HB 1572 is dangerous, far reaching and allows the government, not women and families, to make critical decisions about health care,” said Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota (PPMNS).

“Women and families, not politicians, should decide what’s best for their unique circumstances.  Whether the issue is abortion, birth control, or in vitro fertilization, women, in consultation with doctors should make these personal medical decisions,” said Stoesz.

“This bill is not representative of the majority of North Dakotans, it is merely another attempt by a narrow minority fixated on an agenda that most Americans simply don’t support,” Stoesz said.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Bristol Palin, mother going on two months, spoke with Greta Van Susteren of Fox News about what it’s like to be a teen mother. Despite speculation that the recent interview was merely a bait and switch publicity stunt for Governor Sarah Palin, I actually think Bristol had some important things to say. 

The video is 10 minutes long, so check out the transcript if you want a quicker look.

One of the main take-home points of this video is that being a teen parent is challenging, exhausting and it completely changes your life. Bristol is really grateful for all the help she’s getting from her family, saying that she is “blessed to have them” and that “they help out a lot, more than I would have ever imagined”.

Bristol is definitely quite lucky; Close to 60% of pregnant teens are living in poverty when the baby is born, and teen moms are less likely to finish school and are confronted with a greater barrier to economic and career opportunities. Even the Governor herself admits that Bristol’s extremely supportive family is an anomaly.

Nevertheless Bristol wants people to learn from her situation and help prevent teen pregnancy, “I'm not the first person that it's [teen pregnancy] happened to and I'm not going to be the last. But I don't know. I'd love for—to be an advocate to prevent teen pregnancy because it's not, like, a situation that you want to strive for, I guess.

While she fails to advocate for greater access to contraception, the importance of condom use, and comprehensive sex ed, to her credit she does make an important point:

“...everyone should be abstinent or whatever, but it's not realistic at all”

Yes, of course, it’s the understatement of the year, but Bristol really gets it.—Unlike some people (cough cough Governor Sarah Palin cough).

With the celebrity-like stature Bristol retains, I hope that she does become an advocate to prevent teen pregnancy and gain the courage to talk open and honestly preventing teen pregnancy in a realistic and meaningful way.  Of course, Bristol would have to go against her mom’s support of the abstinence-only education; but then again being a maverick runs in the family.
 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

 
Via MinnPost

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are on the rise in Minnesota, with reported chlamydia cases doubling in the past 10 years, officials say.
 

That makes chlamydia the most common disease in the state, even among non-STIs, including the flu, according to the House Public Information Services office.

Chlamydia more common than the flu? If that’s not a compelling enough reason to pass Senator Marty’s comprehensive prevention bill, then I don’t know what is!
 
Among providing funding for family planning and a sexual education standard, the bill also aims to address STIs in the state of Minnesota.
 
If you haven’t already, contact your legislator HERE  and ask them to support this important bill!

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Want more ways to get involved?

Lobby your Legislator! 

On March 25th, you can lobby your legislator on the issue of family planning funding by registering for Pro-Choice Lobby Day!  Click here for more information and to register online! 

Contact your Legislator

Use our tool to contact your legislator and ask them to support family planning, STI prevention, and sex ed! Click here to take action!

by Shannon

Web Correspondent
South Dakota Community Organizer
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota

This morning, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee shot down Senate Bill 92 in the State Legislature.

This bill was an attack on women, families, and abortion providers in the state, requiring a doctor to be on the premise of the clinic 24 hours prior to a procedure should the woman decide she wants to have a consultation the day before her procedure.

The Committee voted 4 to 3 to move the bill to the 41st Day – the session only lasts 40 days – so the bill is dead.

Thanks to Senators Tom Dempster, Pam Merchant, Stan Adelstein, and Sandy Jerstad for their votes to defeat the bill.

No where in the nation is it more difficult for women to obtain abortions than it is in South Dakota. Instead of further restrictions, we must now work on prevention. Prevention is the true way to reduce unintended pregnancy and the need for abortion in this state.

Senate Bill 134 which aims for contraceptive equity will be heard by the same committee next Wednesday, February 18th at 7:45 am. This bill is what South Dakota needs.

Stay Tuned.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

In the midst of everything that has happened the last couple of weeks (Obama’s inauguration, the Anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the repeal of the global gag rule, clinic violence in St. Paul, cuts to FPSP etc etc), I wanted to go back and take a moment to highlight an excellent liveblog discussion that took place on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade.

Gloria Feldt, a former President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and our very own, Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota held a live discussion about Pro-choice messaging, and specifically the strategy in beating the '08 South Dakota Abortion Ban.

Here’s a few interesting tidbits on the issue of moral conflict and abortion:

AmieN:  Do you think the pro-choice movement is afraid of keeping this idea of being morally conflicted about abortion as part of our strategy - whether political or messaging wise?
Sarah Stoesz:  I wouldn't say afraid. I would say inexperienced with this idea. It's hard for all of us to let go of tried and true language that we've relied on for many years. But in point of fact, our refusal to acknowledge genuine moral ambiguity is not helpful and does not move the conversation forward.

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AmieN:  Marcy Bloom asks, then, Hi, Sarah and Gloria. When you discuss moral clarity and conflict. ho you believe it is successful and "appealing "to use the concept of women as moral and ethical decision-makers? Does that resonate?
Gloria Feldt:  I want to clarify something—appreciating moral ambiguity does not mean moral relativity, or that we don't have moral values/beliefs.
Gloria Feldt:  Marcy, yes, emphatically.The secret of the anti-choice efforts' success has always been rooted in their moral clarity. That gives them a simple and authentic argument. We have that ability too. We shouldn't be flippant (eg, phrases like rosaries off our ovaries, Bush stay out of mine, etc). But elevate the debate to a higher moral plane of women's human rights, justice, moral agency. Then justify that position with stories, illustrations of healthy happy families, drawing the bigger map about childbearing choices that includes birth control, prevention, health, etc.
Sarah Stoesz:  Good question, Marcy. I would say that is not an argument we would take to the voters of SD if we want to win these ballot campaigns.
Sarah Stoesz:  Gloria, I think those are fine arguments in certain parts of the country but they do not work in places like South Dakota, and that is unfortunately where these battles are being fought.

It’s a fascinating discussion—you can read the entire transcript here.

Also, if you’re interested in learning more about how the South Dakota Abortion ban was defeated, you can listen to our 3 part podcast on the subject. Check that out HERE.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

 

As a member of Healthy Legacy, a coalition organization focused on making products healthy and non-toxic, Planned Parenthood is once again focusing on the “The Baby Bottle Bill.”  SF 247 would ban the use of Bishpenol-A (BPA), a chemical associated with polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins, commonly found in baby bottle, sippy cups, and other hard plastics.  It is also found in the protective coating that lines in the interior of cans. BPA is an endocrine disruptor, meaning it act similar to a hormone and can have an effect on the way people physically develop. It’s been linked to early onset of puberty, low sperm counts, prostate and breast cancer, and an array reproductive health problems among other things.

Last year, the bill came close to getting the Governor' s approval, but not close enough. This past week the new bill was heard in the Senate Heath, Housing, and Family Security Committee.  I was able to attend the hearing and it was quite unbelievable. 

Unbelievable in the way that representatives from the Chemical industry testified that there is no evidence to suggest that BPA is harmful.  The fact is that more than 100 studies show that BPA is indeed harmful—- 100% of industry studies found that BPA is not harmful. Hmmmmmmm………..interesting.

You can watch the first day of the hearing here.

MPR recently did a story on the bill as well. Listen to that here.

Based on the overwhelming science, who would you rather protect? The chemical companies? Or the health of babies and children?

The answer seems pretty clear to me.  And it seemed clear to the committee as well.  The bill passed the committee on a second hearing day.  We are still waiting to hear when the house version will be heard in committee. Until then, please sign our petition to keep kids toxic free!!  We need to let legislators and the Governor know that this is an important issue.  Minnesotan kids need safe products!

Take Action

Sign our petition to keep kids toxic free! 

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

A couple of weeks ago Minnesota Governor, Tim Pawlenty, released his budget for tackling the 4.8 billion dollar deficit facing the State. Unfortunately, within those plans contained large cuts to the Family Planning and Special Projects (FPSP), a program that provides important health care to thousands of Minnesotans who can’t afford care elsewhere.  Listen to the audio interview below to learn more about what these cuts would mean for Minnesota.

 

You can subscribe to our free podcast of our interviews and features in itunes HERE. 

TAKE ACTION! 

Contact your legislator and ask them to support prevention by supporting SF 273. Click here for more information and to contact your legislator! 

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Want more ways to get involved?

If you haven't already, sign our baby bottle petition!

 

 

 

 

by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Hard to believe, but yes it’s true.   Many chemicals found in make up and other cosmetic products fit into a category known as endocrine disruptors, meaning that they affect our hormones and how we develop.  These toxins are closely linked with negative effects on reproductive systems and specific kinds of cancer.

The CBS affiliate out of Massachusetts has an informative segment about these toxins and how they specifically affect young women and teens.

Watch the video HERE.

I don’t know about you, but I find the notion that I’ve been smearing my face with toxins to be a little overwhelming.  While it’s tempting to think, “There are chemicals everywhere and there’s nothing I can do about it,” so much of what ends up affecting our health is based on a cumulative exposure and the way chemicals interact. If we can cut down on at least some of our exposure, it’s bound to help.  So if you’re interested in finding out what chemicals are in your cosmetics, you can check out the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and find out what safer alternatives exist.

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Today, Governor Pawlenty announced a more than $2 million dollar cut to Family Planning Special Projects (FPSP) over the next biennium. These cuts will directly affect Minnesotans most in need of health care.

“Now is not the time for Governor Pawlenty to waiver in the commitment he made, in partnership with the Minnesota legislature, to invest in helping low income Minnesotans access family planning,” Stoesz said.

“As more and more Minnesota families lose jobs and insurance coverage, the Governor should not stand between some of the most economically challenged women in the state and the health care they need to build stronger futures.

Without public investment, nearly 60% of women in need of family planning assistance are unable to easily access basic public health programs.

“For every dollar invested in family planning programs a savings of more than $4.00 is realized. Women in need are four times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy than women at higher income levels,” said Stoesz.

“All women, regardless of economic status, must have the same opportunity to access health care, plan and space healthy pregnancies. Strong family planning is good health care policy, good public policy and makes good sense from both a fiscal and a social perspective,” Stoesz said.

For more than 80 years, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota has worked in our region to make sure all people have the information and the means to make free and responsible decisions about whether and when to have children.  Planned Parenthood operates 29 clinics in Minnesota and South Dakota, providing quality and affordable family planning, reproductive health care services and education to more than  60,000 women and men each year.    
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Thank you for contacting your Senator about SF 273!

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by Sarah Stoesz

President and CEO

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota 

What an amazing week it has been for women's health! If you haven't heard the tremendous news yet, our pro-choice President Obama, having taken office less than a week ago, has issued an executive order to repeal the Mexico City Policy, a rule that imposes crippling restrictions on international family planning organizations.

Initially created by President Reagan, the Mexico City Policy, commonly referred to as the global gag rule, is a controversial, ideological policy that forbids international family planning clinics that receive US aid from providing, referring, or counseling on abortion as part of the full range of a woman's reproductive health options. The policy even goes as far as prohibiting these clinics to use their own money for the purposes of lobbying on greater abortion rights. This puts health providers in an extremely difficult position; clinics can choose to accept US dollars and be obligated to withhold access to lifesaving services and information, or reject the aid and operate with limited funds.  Because of this policy, many clinics cannot afford the supplies to carry out day-to-day family planning work. Many clinics have had to close, leaving women without access to vital reproductive health care.

President Obama's repeal of the global gag rule sends a strong message: women's health is not an ideological issue. When nearly two hundred women die every day due to an unsafe abortion and about one in 10 pregnancies end in an unsafe abortion, reversing this devastating policy will help reduce those tragic deaths and work to prevent the need for abortion.

Starting now, women will once again have access to the full range of reproductive health care. International family planning clinics will have the funds to provide the important services that prevent unintended pregnancies and help men and women protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. Under Obama's leadership, the U.S. will end the era of politicizing woman's health and resume its position as a leader in the improvement and expansion of women's health, safety, and rights.

President Obama, time after time, has expressed his deep commitment to a woman's right to choose and abolishing the global gag rule reinforces his commitment.

I am confident that as we look to the future, we will see many leaps forward for women's health and safety. I am hopeful that President Obama will continue to make the health and safety of women across the globe a priority—that's definitely change I can believe in.

 

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Today, President Obama overturned a nearly decade-old policy that denied women across the globe access to the full range of reproductive health care needed to protect their health and strengthen their economic stability.

“President Obama’s action to overturn the global gag rule ushers in a new day for women’s health, here and around the world, signaling that the U.S. can once again be a leader in the fight for equal access, rights and freedom,” said Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS).

Initially created by President Reagan, the Mexico City Policy, commonly referred to as the global gag rule, is a controversial, ideological policy that forbids international family planning clinics that receive U.S. aid from providing, referring, or counseling on abortion as part of the full range of a woman’s reproductive health options.

The global gag rule puts health providers in an extremely difficult position; clinics can choose to accept US dollars and be obligated to withhold access to life-saving services and information, or reject the aid and operate with very limited funds.  Because of this policy, many clinics cannot afford the supplies to carry out day-to-day family planning work. Many have had to close, leaving women without access to vital reproductive health care.

“No longer will health care providers be forced to choose between receiving critical family planning funding and restricting the health care services and counseling they provide to women,” Stoesz said.

“President Obama’s repeal of the global gag rule sends a strong message: women’s health is not an ideological issue,” said Stoesz. “When one in 10 pregnancies across the globe end in an unsafe abortion, reversing this devastating policy will help reduce those tragic deaths while working to prevent the need for abortion,” said Stoesz.

“Starting now, women will once again have access to the full range of reproductive health care. International family planning clinics will have the funds to provide the important services that prevent unintended pregnancies and help men and women protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections,” Stoesz said.

“Under Obama’s leadership, the U.S. will end the era of politicizing woman’s health and resume its position as a leader in the improvement and expansion of women’s health, safety, and rights,” said Stoesz.

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by Karina
Web Editor
Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

Today marks the 36th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that gave women the legal right to terminate a pregnancy. Anti-choicers mark the day by holding large protests across the country, including a huge March for Life protest in front of the Supreme Court Building in DC.

At the Minnesota Capitol building in St. Paul, Minnesota Concerned Citizens for Life hold their annual protest featuring speeches and messages from anti-choice politicians from the local and national level.

Also, in St. Paul, while anti-choice protesters peacefully protested across the street from the Planned Parenthood Highland Park Clinic, an extreme anti-choicer decided to ram his SUV against the front door of the clinic.  Thankfully, no one was injured and little damage was done.

KSTP has a video about the incident.

These kinds of violent acts are extremely rare, but they do further emphasize the need to move beyond the divisive abortion debate and start talking about solutions that actually reduce the need for abortion.  Planned Parenthood does more in a single day to prevent the need for abortion than anti-choice protesters do in a lifetime.  If we could all come together and focus on increasing access to family planning and birth control, and providing medically accurate, age-appropriate responsible sex education, then we could dramatically reduce the rate of unintended pregnancy and keep the government away from legislating what are private and personal matters.

Today, on the 36th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota reaffirms its commitment to this cause.

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(St. Paul, MN)—On the 36th  anniversary of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) reaffirms its commitment to reproductive justice and it’s efforts to ensure that all women and families have access to the health care they need.  We recognize that in order for women to participate fully in our society, they must have the ability to make personal decisions about their reproductive health.

“Today, we ask again that all those truly interested in the health and well-being of all women and families move past divisive debates and join us to work toward real solutions,” said Sarah Stoesz, President and CEO of PPMNS.

“In these uncertain economic times, we call on the Governor and the Minnesota legislature to continue to invest in helping low income Minnesotans access family planning,” Stoesz said. Without public investment, nearly 60% of women in need of family planning assistance are unable to easily access basic public health programs. For every dollar invested in family planning programs a savings of $4.00 is realized. Women in need are four times more likely to have an unintended pregnancy than women at higher income levels,” said Stoesz.

“All women, regardless of economic status, must have the same opportunity to access health care, plan and space healthy pregnancies— and ultimately, to fulfill their dreams and destinies,” said Stoesz.

“Strong family planning is good health care policy, good public policy and makes good sense from both a fiscal and a social perspective,” Stoesz said.

Last year in communities across our region, Planned Parenthood provide more than 65,000 women, men and teens with health care and education they need to build healthier, brighter futures.

 

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36th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade a Powerful Reminder That The Struggle for Women's Health and Safety Continues

(Sioux Falls)  On the anniversary of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota (PPMNS) renewed it's commitment to continue to protect women's health, increase access to affordable health care and birth control and to work in coalition to improve preventative health care for South Dakotans.

PPMNS will also partner will NARAL Pro-Choice South Dakota to present a showing of the documentary "Motherhood by Choice, Not Chance."

The event will be held on January 22 from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn City Centre, 100 W 8th St., in Sioux Falls.

RSVP if you plan to attend to: (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

"Strong family planning is good health care policy, good public policy and makes good sense from both a fiscal and a social perspective," said Shannon Stevens, PPMNS Public Affairs Manager.

Last year in communities across our region, Planned Parenthood provide more than 65,000 women, men and teens with health care and education they need to build healthier, brighter futures.

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For 80 years, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota has worked in our region to make sure all people have the information and the means to make free and responsible decisions about whether and when to have children.  Planned Parenthood operates 29 clinics in Minnesota and South Dakota, providing quality and affordable family planning, reproductive health care services and education to more than 60,000 women and men each year. 

 

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Kristine

Web Correspondent

Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota Action Fund

With Barack Obama’s upcoming inauguration, you may have heard this man’s name being floated around lately: Sanjay Gupta, neurosurgeon and chief health correspondent for CNN, has been offered the position of Surgeon General by the President-Elect. And this nomination is not without its share of controversy. As Surgeon General, Gupta would be expected to relate scientific and medical information to the public. Supporters of Gupta argue that his high profile and access to media communication (in addition to contributing to CNN, Gupta also appears regularly on Anderson Cooper 360 and currently publishes a column in TIME Magazine) make him an ideal candidate.

However, others worry that his ties to pharmaceutical companies might present a conflict of interests. Furthermore, Drs. Lisa Schwartz and Steven Woloshin of the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice criticize Gupta’s media ties, saying that a surgeon general would "need to demonstrate skills that are too often missing in medical news on TV: skepticism about the science and a careful analysis of both the benefits and harms of medical care".

Though there is still little information on Gupta’s stance on reproductive rights and issues, Jodi Jacobson reports for RH Reality, writing that if he accepts the position, “Gupta is expected to have an expanded role in health policy and possibly in health care reform.  This may be good for women's health and rights. Gupta has, for example, sharply criticized the regulations published by the Department of Health and Human Services…that allow providers to deny reproductive and sexual health services to women based on a loose definition of ‘conscience’ ’’.

While Gupta appears to be in dialogue with women’s health concerns, in terms of making a significant impact on reproductive rights issues, Gupta’s policy remains yet to be seen.

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