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As Congress debates a significant budget package aligned with former President Donald Trump's agenda, the U.S. Catholic bishops have voiced mixed reactions to federal actions impacting human life. These actions include policies on gender transition, abortion funding, and care for pregnant migrants.
On May 20, Trump urged Republican leaders in a private meeting to pass what he refers to as his "big, beautiful bill." This proposed legislation aims to implement key aspects of his tax and immigration policy but faces opposition due to concerns about its potential impact on the deficit.
The Catholic leadership has expressed both support and criticism for different elements of the package. Some critics oppose its cuts to Medicaid, while others praise it for attempting to defund health providers that also perform abortions.
House Republicans are working to secure enough votes to pass their version of the budget package before Memorial Day. However, they face challenges due to a narrow majority.
In a joint statement on May 19 regarding the budget reconciliation bill, Bishop Daniel E. Thomas of Toledo and Bishop Robert E. Barron of Winona-Rochester stated: “Americans should not be forced to subsidize abortions and ‘gender transition’ services with their tax dollars.”
The bishops further criticized Planned Parenthood's use of taxpayer funds: “For decades, Planned Parenthood has received government money and offered low-income women one terrible option: to end the lives of their babies... Americans should not be forced to subsidize abortions and ‘gender transition’ services with their tax dollars.”
They called for more support for life-affirming health care providers serving mothers and children in need: “We urge all members of Congress and the Administration...to protect vulnerable women and children from mutilating ‘gender transition’ services and the scourge of abortion.”
Additionally, an April letter from Archbishop Borys Gudziak emphasized preserving programs like Medicaid within reconciliation legislation.
Separately, the bishops addressed concerns over recent changes by the Trump administration affecting pregnant migrants in custody. The rescinded policy had ensured noncitizen mothers received appropriate care while detained.
Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso commented on this change: “It is deeply troubling...that measures intended to ensure the basic safety of pregnant mothers...could be rescinded.” He urged reinstating guidance that affirms adequate care standards for this vulnerable population.
Kate Scanlon reports nationally for OSV News from Washington. Follow her on X @kgscanlon.
