Ocean County Leader

In a recent initiative, 112 members of Congress have requested an investigation by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) into federal funding allocated to abortion providers over the past three years. The request was made through a bicameral letter led by House Pro-Life Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL), and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY).

The signatories include 81 House Members and 31 Senators, among them the top leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA).

"We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers," the lawmakers wrote.

They pointed out that previous reports by GAO indicated that nearly $2 billion in federal taxpayer dollars were directed towards the abortion industry between fiscal years 2019-2021.

"We are grateful for the past products and respectfully request that the GAO provide a similar report covering fiscal years 2022-2024."

The lawmakers emphasized the importance of oversight on public funds, stating: "Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike."

"It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public," they added.