Piccola's Statement on Governor's Veto of Family Planning Restriction in Budget

 

I am outraged by Governor Rendell’s veto of the restrictions on family planning services in the recently passed state budget.

 

As a result of this veto, the amount of money that can be spent on family planning has increased 1000%

 

It is particularly grave that this massive increase in funding is not subject to the restrictions regarding counseling and referrals for abortions that have been part of the budget for almost ten years.  This is a direct assault on those Pennsylvanians that believe their state dollars should not be associated with abortion.

 

My office was integrally involved and worked diligently to secure this language in the budget.  We worked closely with Senator Jane Orie and various pro-life groups in securing its passage.

 

As a legislator who values the sanctity of innocent human life, I will do everything in my power to fight against this outrageous action.

 

As if this veto was not contemptible enough, it is another example of the deceit of the Rendell Administration.

 

This language was part of the negotiated budget agreement and the Rendell Administration has once again said one thing and done another.

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