We, the Catholic bishops of Illinois, write in regard to House Bill 4013, legislation which is a radical departure from longstanding Illinois health policy. As it allows taxpayer money to pay for abortions and funds grants to organizations that advocate for and perform abortions, we ask that you join us in opposing it. These specific provisions of the legislation proposed are troubling: The American people have opposed the use of public money to support or promote elective abortion. As recently as March 2014, a CNN/ORC poll of over 1,000 adults nationwide found the public opposes the use of public funds for abortion by a margin of 56 percent to 39 percent. Additionally, there is nearly a 40-year history of federal legislation embracing this principle through the Hyde amendment to annual appropriations bills, and in numerous similar provisions governing a wide range of domestic and foreign programs. The provisions of House Bill 4013 will force all taxpayers, even those opposed as a matter of conscience, to participate in funding the abortion industry. This is a radical shift in public policy as it totally disregards the fact that an overwhelming majority of Americans steadfastly have opposed contributing their personal resources through tax dollars for the destruction of innocent human life. We ask that you reject this bill and not allow the use of public funds for abortion. As we thank you for your thoughtful consideration of our request, this letter gives us the opportunity to express our gratitude for your public service and our high regard for the sacrifices it involves for you and your families. Respectfully, Most Rev. Blase Cupich Archbishop of Chicago Most Rev. Daniel Jenky, C.S.C Bishop of Peoria Most Rev. Edward Braxton Bishop of Belleville Most Rev. David Malloy Bishop of Rockford Most Rev. Daniel Conlon Bishop of Joliet Most Rev. Thomas Paprocki Bishop of Springfield in Illinois
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