Hinds Today

Senate Pro-Life Caucus Chair Cindy Hyde-Smith, along with U.S. Representatives Michael Guest and Mike Ezell, have signed a letter requesting an updated Government Accountability Office (GAO) investigation. The letter seeks to determine the level of federal funding awarded to abortion providers over the past three years.

These Mississippi lawmakers are part of a group consisting of 31 Senators and 81 Representatives who are seeking updated data on federal taxpayer dollars from fiscal years 2022-2024. The request targets organizations such as Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, Federally Qualified Health Centers, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers.

In their communication, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of oversight: “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.”

They further stated their expectation that the report will enhance transparency: “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 GAO has conducted several reports on federal funding for these organizations in response to congressional requests over the years. Its most recent report indicated that nearly $2 billion in federal taxpayer dollars were directed towards abortion industry entities between fiscal years 2019-2021, despite existing restrictions on using federal funds for abortions.

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn and U.S. Representative Chris Smith led this initiative.