The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has proposed a new rule to reverse a 2022 policy allowing abortion services in VA hospitals. Published in the Federal Register, the rule aims to end taxpayer-funded abortions and related counseling, except in life-threatening emergencies. The policy shift comes amid continued national debate over abortion access following the Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson decision.
2022 Rule Enabled Limited Abortion Access
The Biden administration introduced the current rule after Dobbs, responding to states enacting near-total abortion bans. It allowed VA hospitals to perform abortions in cases of rape, incest, or medical emergencies. The policy marked a significant shift for the VA, which had previously excluded abortion from its healthcare offerings.
Legal Basis for Reversal Cited
The proposed rule argues that the 2022 change lacked legal grounding. Citing the Veterans Health Care Act of 1992, the proposal states that Congress explicitly barred the VA from providing abortions, infertility services, or routine pregnancy care. The department contends the 2022 rule exceeded its statutory authority and conflicted with longstanding legal interpretations.
Emergency Care for Pregnant Veterans to Continue
The VA emphasizes that it will still provide emergency care to pregnant veterans. The proposed rule clarifies that treatments for ectopic pregnancies and miscarriages will remain covered, as they are considered life-saving interventions. It also notes that no state law currently bans such emergency treatments.
Supporters and Opponents Weigh In
Supporters, including Carol Tobias of National Right to Life, praised the rule as a return to the VA’s mission of “life-affirming” care. They argue that the VA should not facilitate abortions using federal funds. Detractors, however, warn that reversing the policy may endanger veterans in restrictive states and limit essential reproductive healthcare.
Public Comment Period Open Until September 3
VA Secretary Doug Collins approved the proposed rollback on July 24th. A 30-day public comment window, mandated by federal law, runs through September 3rd. The outcome will determine whether the VA reverts to its pre-2022 abortion policy.
Source:
Biden-Era Policy Reversed: Veterans Hospitals Will No Longer Perform Abortions
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