The state of Pennsylvania is discontinuing its funding for pro-life counseling centers after providing support for nearly three decades. Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro announced this decision, ending a bipartisan contract with the pro-life nonprofit Real Alternatives.
Real Alternatives had been contracted in the 1990s during the tenure of pro-life Democratic Governor Bob Casey, Sr. At that time, Pennsylvania began funding abortion alternatives in addition to abortion providers like Planned Parenthood.
Under this contract, Real Alternatives annually distributed federal and state funds to pro-life centers, including organizations like Catholic Charities, maternity homes, and counseling centers. Last year, they distributed nearly $7 million to 70 pro-life pregnancy centers in Pennsylvania, serving 350,000 women at 1.9 million office visits across the state.
Governor Shapiro, a staunch defender of abortion access, declared that his administration would not continue the tradition of funding pro-life counseling centers. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that women in Pennsylvania receive the reproductive health care they deserve.
The decision to cut funding for pro-life centers comes at a time when states across the nation are grappling with abortion restrictions. A recent ruling in Texas, for example, found the state’s abortion ban to be too restrictive for women with serious pregnancy complications, mandating exceptions where doctors wouldn’t face criminal charges. This ruling represents a significant development in the ongoing battle over abortion rights and access in the United States.