Tennessee has enacted a law that will block the use of taxpayer dollars to fund abortions locally, including traveling out of state.
In Tennessee, abortion is illegal under all circumstances. The only exception would be if the health of the mother is at risk. However, there are many in the state who argue that abortion is a part of woman’s healthcare, and the state is doing harm to women.
“We already are in a situation where we have OB-GYNs moving out of the state,” said State Senator Heidi Campbell “To make it even more onerous for women in this situation seems indefensible to me. It’s really hard to be a woman in the state of Tennessee right now. I don’t see why we have to make it harder for women.”
Under the new law, if state funds are used for abortion procedures the state would grant a complete audit for misuse of funds. This bill was introduced after the Nashville Metro Council proposed $500,000 to assist Tennessee residents the ability to travel out of state to receive an abortion. Following the new law, the council made an amendment saying it would be for northern Mississippi and planned parenthood in Tennessee.
Proponents of this new law argue that since abortion is such a heated topic, those who are against abortion should not see their taxpayer dollars fund these procedures.
Senate sponsor Joey Hensley stated, “It is just improper usage of taxpayer funds to transport a pregnant woman across state lines for an abortion. Abortion is illegal in this state. So, if they are doing something illegal, they should not be using taxpayer funds.”
