(Image Source: YouTube/JohnBoehner)

BY TRACY PFEIFFER

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Women’s and reproductive rights groups are in a fury after the introduction of a bill called the “No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act.”

The bill, introduced by Republican Congressman Chris Smith of New Jersey, would further limit the use of government funds to pay for abortions. Currently, those funds can only be used in cases of rape, incest, or possibly fatal health complications for the mother. The new bill would restrict these exemptions to cases of quote- “forcible rape.” (Video: C-SPAN)

A writer for Mother Jones, who broke the story, says the change would revoke access for many women, such as those who are victims of date rape -- and even victims of rape with mental disabilities.

“The term ‘forcible rape’ is not defined in the federal criminal code, and the bill's authors don't offer their own definition. In some states, there is no legal definition of ‘forcible rape,’ making it unclear whether any abortions would be covered by the rape exemption in those jurisdictions.”

And a reaction posted to the website Lawyers, Guns, and Money calls the bill quote- “appalling.”

“So merely being forced to have sex without your consent isn’t the same as being raped as far as access to health care is concerned? ...can we please stop hearing about how criminalizing abortion is really about protecting women?”

But while the bill has sparked outrage for some, Republican Congressman Joseph Pitts of Pennsylvania says -- this type of legislation is supported by the American people at large.

PITTS: “I think the momentum, really, is on the pro-life. If you look at the hearts and minds of young people and people in the polls -- this issue has consistently polled 60 to 70 percent against using taxpayer funds for abortions, so I think it’s consistent with where the people are.”

A writer for Outside the Beltway says he’s quote- “rather queasy about the whole thing,” but he isn’t convinced the bill is as bad some believe. He points out, this is nothing new -- if someone believes life begins at conception, the circumstances of the pregnancy are irrelevant.

“...the rape exception was never logical but rather a concession to an emotional issue... the idea that a woman should be forced to bear the emotional trauma of carrying a constant reminder of a violent, awful crime for nine months... is just so emotionally wrenching that we’ve carved out an exception.”

Finally, a writer for Washington Monthly says the bill most likely won’t pass -- but notes, it’s further proof the GOP is straying the issues which many believe led to Republican gains in 2010 -- job creation and the economy.

“...it seemed like another gesture to the party's far-right base. After all, existing law already restricts public funds for abortions. ... But the fact that the bill actually reflects Republican priorities … speaks volumes.”

In a press conference, Republican Speaker of the House John Boehner dubbed the “No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act” a top priority for Congress.

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