House Health Care Champions Introduce Legislation In Support of UNFPA, the UN’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Agency

WASHINGTON D.C. — Last week, Representative Chrissy Houlahan and 116 cosponsors reintroduced the Support UNFPA Funding Act in the U.S. House. This legislation would authorize funding and declare support for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and its critical work on reproductive and maternal health care around the world.

Statement from Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America:  

“UNFPA plays a key role in protecting and expanding access to sexual and reproductive health care world wide and it’s critical that Congress supports their mission. Everyone deserves access to quality health care, no matter who they are or where they live. We applaud Rep. Houlahan for her steadfast commitment to speaking out about UNFPA’s vital work around the world and are excited to see so many members co-sponsor this important legislation. Planned Parenthood is proud to advocate for funding for health care programs in the U.S. and abroad.” 

Established in 1969 with U.S. support, UNFPA is the world’s principal multilateral provider of family planning and reproductive health services and a vital source of contraceptive supplies worldwide. UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, including humanitarian crises and conflict settings. They work to improve maternal mortality, end gender-based violence, support family planning, provide contraceptives, safely deliver babies, reduce the rate of sexually transmitted diseases and infections, and more. Unfortunately, the previous administration withheld funding from this valuable UN partner for four years, undermining U.S. global health, gender equality, and humanitarian efforts and putting people’s lives at risk.

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Planned Parenthood is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of high-quality, affordable sexual and reproductive health care for all people, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education. With more than 600 health centers across the country, Planned Parenthood organizations serve all patients with care and compassion, with respect, and without judgment, striving to create equitable access to health care. Through health centers, programs in schools and communities, and online resources, Planned Parenthood is a trusted source of reliable education and information that allows people to make informed health decisions. We do all this because we care passionately about helping people lead healthier lives. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports the independently incorporated Planned Parenthood affiliates operating health centers across the U.S.