Blackburn, Smith Lead Over 100 Members of Congress in Asking GAO to Investigate How Much Federal Funding Has Been Awarded to Abortion Providers

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a bicameral letter led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), 112 Members of Congress asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate and report on the amount of federal funding that has been awarded to abortion providers-including Planned Parenthood-over the past three years:

"We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers," the lawmakers wrote.

"Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike," the lawmakers continued. "It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public."

• The lawmakers noted the GAO has prepared several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for these organizations over the years. According to its most recent report, the abortion industry had siphoned off nearly $2 billion federal taxpayer between fiscal years 2019-2021.

• Among the 81 House Members and 31 Senators who signed the letter are the top three leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).

Full text of the letter and list of co-signers can be found here.