WASHINGTON – Following the release of videos documenting the Planned Parenthood’s role in the harvesting of organs from unborn babies, U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and twenty-two of his colleagues last night to introduce legislation to defund the organization.

The bill, S.1881, will prohibit federal funding of Planned Parenthood. Boozman is an original cosponsor.

“As a strong believer in the sanctity of life, I am committed to defending those who cannot defend themselves. The idea that an organization would seek compensation for the heinous practices discussed during these videos is appalling and raises not only concerns regarding whether Planned Parenthood broke multiple laws, but also the moral, ethical and policy implications its actions may have,” Boozman said. “The cavalier manner in which high-level Planned Parenthood officials describe these gruesome practices is reflective of the organization’s disregard for life. Taxpayers should not be forced to support them.”

In addition to defunding Planned Parenthood, the bill ensures that federal funds will still be available for women’s health services including relevant diagnostic laboratory and radiology services, well-child care, prenatal and postpartum care, immunization, family planning services including contraception, sexually transmitted disease testing, cervical and breast cancer screenings and referrals. 

Funds no longer available to Planned Parenthood will continue to be offered to other eligible entities to provide such women’s health care services.