Colorado bishops urge governor to veto taxpayer-funded abortion bill

Colorado legislators have forwarded two abortion-related bills to Governor Jared Polis, aiming to secure legal backing for the use of public funds in abortion procedures. This legislative move follows a decision by Colorado voters to amend the state constitution, thereby ensuring protection for abortion rights and removing previous funding restrictions.

Among the propositions, Senate Bill 129 is designed to shield Colorado-based abortion providers from investigative efforts by other states. Senate Bill 183, on the other hand, allows the use of taxpayer money to finance abortion services, a development that has garnered significant attention.

In response, the state's Catholic bishops have issued a public plea for Governor Polis to veto S.B. 183. Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila, Auxiliary Bishop Jorge H. Rodriguez of Denver, Bishop James R. Golka of Colorado Springs, and Bishop Stephen J. Berg of Pueblo conveyed their appeal through the Colorado Catholic Conference. They emphasized their stance with the statement: "Every human life, from conception to natural death, is a sacred gift from God. No act of law can change this truth, nor can it erase our moral obligation to defend the most vulnerable among us." The bishops voiced their concern that taxpayer funds could be better allocated towards life-affirming measures such as prenatal care and adoption services.

On the other side of the debate, Democratic State Representative Lorena Garcia asserted that the measure aligns with the will of the voters, positing that "abortion must remain safe, legal and protected." Garcia countered by emphasizing that the bill is integral to expanding access to essential reproductive health care, including abortions.

A contrasting view is held by Kristen Day, the executive director of Democrats for Life of America. She co-authored a proposal titled "Make Birth Free: A Vision for Congress to Empower American Mothers, Families and Communities." Day criticizes the prioritization of abortion funding, arguing that Colorado lawmakers are neglecting the needs of low-income families, who should receive financial support to offset childbirth expenses.

Reporter Kate Scanlon provides coverage of these developments for OSV News. Further updates are anticipated as the situation progresses.