Columbia Standard

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has introduced the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act in an effort to safeguard the use of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for pregnancy centers. This move comes in response to a proposed rule issued by the Biden administration on October 2, 2023, which could potentially restrict states from utilizing TANF funding for pregnancy centers.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.), and it has already passed the House by a narrow vote of 214-208 on January 19th. Senator Scott, a vocal proponent of supporting families in need, expressed his support for the legislation, stating, "Pregnancy centers do extraordinary work to lift up mothers and their children in need. If this program's goal is to provide assistance for needy families that will help them build stable, caring homes for their children, the only possible motivation for stripping funding from pregnancy centers is a political one."

Rep. Fischbach also voiced her support, emphasizing the importance of pregnancy centers in providing a wide range of services and support for expectant mothers, fathers, and their families. She stressed the need for these centers to be free from any pressure to push for abortions and instead provide education and support. The Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act aims to ensure that pregnancy centers cannot be excluded or restricted from receiving TANF funding.

Various pro-life organizations, including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, National Right to Life, Americans United for Life, and Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee, have expressed their support for the legislation. This bipartisan effort is crucial in ensuring that expectant mothers have access to the necessary resources and support to raise their families.

Senator Scott has garnered the support of several fellow senators, including Senators Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and John Kennedy (R-La.), who have all cosponsored the legislation. This broad support demonstrates the commitment of conservatives to stand up for unborn children and their mothers and to empower expectant mothers to confidently embrace motherhood.

The Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act is an essential step in protecting the vital support provided by pregnancy centers across the country. It not only ensures that these centers can continue their important work but also sends a clear message that the government is committed to assisting families in need.