Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee Holds Mark-Up, Includes $9.9 Million Increase for Title X

The Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services and Education (Labor-HHS) Subcommittee began work on its Fiscal Year 2011 bill this afternoon. The subcommittee draft of the bill, known as the Chairman's mark, included $327 million for the Title X program, an increase of $9.9 million from last year, the same as the President's budget request. NFPRHA is pleased that, while many programs face level funding or even cuts, the subcommittee recognized the effectiveness of Title X and the importance of the program to the patients it serves.

Last week, the House Appropriations Labor-HHS Subcommittee held its mark-up, which included a $9.9 million increase for Title X. The House mark-up also saw an amendment by Ranking member Todd Tiahrt (R-KS) to include the Stupak-Pitts abortion ban (and therefore modify health care reform law). The Tiahrt amendment was defeated 5-11, along party lines. Chairman Obey urged his colleagues to oppose the amendment remarking "that this was not the venue" for Rep. Tiahrt's amendment. NFPRHA staff expects to see more anti-family planning and anti-choice amendments as both chambers continue with their Labor-HHS markups and will work with legislators to defeat amendments that might adversely impact health care delivery in family planning health centers.

Because the process is just beginning, your voice as an advocate is important and influential. The full Senate Appropriations Committee will mark up this Thursday afternoon. It is unclear when the full House Appropriations Committee will complete its mark-up.

Please contact your members of Congress and urge them to support this increase in funding for Title X, and commit to fund this effective program at $700 million within the next five years. This is especially critical if your member of Congress sits on the House or Senate Appropriations Committees.

You can deliver your message by contacting the Capitol Switchboard at (202)224-3121 and asking to be connected to your representative's office.

Don't miss an opportunity to double your advocacy efforts! Urge your member of Congress to be co-sponsors of the Title X Resolution (H. Res. 1476 in the House and S. Res. 565 in the Senate).

< Prev		Next >