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The Decision that Changed Everything

January 20, 2012 By

This Sunday marks the 39th anniversary of the most tragic U.S. Supreme Court decision in our nation’s history, Roe v. Wade.

Since 1973, more than 50 million abortions have been performed in America – roughly one-sixth of our population has been lost.

While there is much work to be done until we see the day when every life is cherished and protected from its very beginning to its natural end, the pro-life movement is stronger than ever.

The Pro-Life Shift
At the time of Roe v. Wade, a majority of Americans were asleep and not aware of the implications of legalized abortion for any reason, at any stage of pregnancy, at any age of the mother. Thankfully, our nation has experienced, and continues to experience, a dramatic shift in Americans’ attitudes about abortion. Americans have woken up to the fact that abortion stops a beating heart, breaks a woman’s heart, harms a woman physically and emotionally, and does not provide solutions to any problems.

Ultrasound technology has proven the humanity of the preborn child. Everyone knows a woman who was harmed by abortion and regrets her so-called “choice.” The dangerous practices of abortion providers like Planned Parenthood and Gosnell in Pennsylvania have been exposed in shocking detail.

In July 2011, Gallup found the following:

  • 26 percent of Americans believe abortion should be legal under any circumstances.
  • 13 percent believe abortion should be legal under most circumstances.
  • 38 percent believe abortion should be legal in only few circumstances.
  • 20 percent believe abortion should be illegal in all circumstances.

That means almost 60 percent of Americans believe abortions should be illegal in either all or most circumstances. Even though Planned Parenthood still receives more than 300 million tax dollars annually, there has been a shift in public perception about the abortion giant, in part thanks to Americans United for Life and their recent report The Case for Investigating Planned Parenthood.

Arizona: One of the Most Improved Pro-Life States
In Arizona, thanks to Arizonans voting their pro-life values to elect a pro-life legislature and Governor, we have made significant progress to protect preborn children and women – so much so that Americans United for Life named our state one of the “most-improved” states in the country for pro-life legislation.

In the last year alone, CAP-supported laws have taken effect that:

  • require an ultrasound be given to a woman at least an hour before an abortion,
  • ensure parental consent is notarized before a minor can have an abortion,
  • ensure a women has the right to meet with a doctor at least 24 hours before an abortion, and
  • prohibit non-doctors from performing abortion.

You can read more about Arizona’s abortion laws on AZPolicyPages.com

The Ongoing Fight
This session, CAP will once again be supporting legislation to promote the health and safety of women considering an abortion, and to protect them against the predatory practices of the abortion industry. Stay tuned over the next two weeks as key pro-life legislation is introduced.

We will also continue our work to defend CAP-supported legislation in court, like the law that would disqualify donations to any organization that provides, promotes, pays for, or provides referrals for abortion from being eligible for the working poor tax credit. This law is currently blocked from taking effect because of a lawsuit the ACLU brought on behalf of the Arizona Domestic Violence Coalition.

Join the Cause
Take time to consider these four ways you can make a difference for life in Arizona:

  • Join me this Sunday at the Arizona March for Life, sponsored by Arizona Right to Life. This year’s theme is “Respect, Love, Protect.” Click here for more details.
  • Order a Choose Life license plate. For only $25, you can make a statement daily to our community about the importance of promoting and protecting human life, while also providing funding that will help women find positive, life-affirming alternatives to abortion. Visit ServiceArizona.com to order your plate today!
  • Support your local Pregnancy Resource Center. Through their love and service, countless women have been given the hope and support needed to choose life when faced with a crisis pregnancy. Many of these organizations are led by volunteer staffs, so support from the community is vital.
  • Make sure you and your circles of influence are registered to vote then plan to help keep the Arizona legislature pro-life in this year’s elections. Check out azvoterguide.com for elections resources.
Filed Under: Family, Judicial, Legislation, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , ,

Flying Out of the Gates

January 13, 2012 By

Only a week into session and two CAP-supported bills have passed out of a committee. SB 1047 and SB 1048 strengthen and expand Arizona’s Scholarship Tax Credit program, which gives a dollar-for-dollar tax credit to donations to School Tuition Organizations (STOs). STOs then provide families with scholarships so their children can attend the school of the parents’ choice.
Praying for those in Authority
At dawn Monday before the session began, concerned citizens from across the state participated in our annual Prayer Walk. We walked the grounds of the state Capitol, including the House and Senate floors, praying for our elected officials, the current legislative session, and for the future of Arizona. I hope you join me in continuous prayer for all of those in positions of authority.
Standing for Life
Opening day was full of citizens exercising their First Amendment rights. Planned Parenthood held a rally to push the pro-abortion agenda and tell legislators “women are watching them.” As it turns out, pro-life women are watching too, and Brooke Burns and the Arizona Right to Life crew held an impromptu rally to show our elected officials support for standing for life. Carrying signs that say “We Love You – Choose Life,” about 40 people boldly stood out in the Capitol lawn in support of preborn children and protecting the health and safety of women.
Arizona Day of Prayer Challenged … again
The Freedom From Religion Foundation has once again filed a lawsuit over the Arizona Day of Prayer, but this time in state court. You may recall a federal court judge tossed out FFRF’s lawsuit against the Day of Prayer in federal court. Prayer has been at the foundation of our country from the very beginning, and it is simply absurd that organizations like this are trying to rewrite history and block religious speech in the public square. Click here to listen to my interview with Family News in Focus on the lawsuit.
WARNING: Divorce Comes with Unexpected Side Effects
The University of Arizona released a review this week of more than 30 studies on the harms of divorce. They found that individuals that go through a divorce run a significant higher risk of dying earlier than married couples. In fact, they found that risks associated with divorce are similar to smoking and excessive drinking. Read more here.
CAP Back on Radio

Be sure to tune in daily to 960 AM The Patriot before the Hugh Hewitt Show in the afternoon and KPXQ 1360 AM The Christian Station in Phoenix to catch me on the Patriot Policy Minute. For you northern Arizonans, remember to tune into 90.9 FM Radio Shine every Friday for the CAP Family Minute, our weekly update from the legislature.
Filed Under: Legislation, Marriage, Religion, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , ,

A New Year Begins – Legislature Back on Monday

January 6, 2012 By

This week, our nation began the long march toward electing a new President with the Iowa caucus. Our state observes its 100th anniversary since joining the union February 14, 1912. As we embark on what may be one of the most critical election years in our nation’s and state’s history, I urge you to redouble your prayers, recommit to standing with us, and know that you can make a difference!

Monday is the first of many important days for Arizona in 2012, as the second regular session of the state’s 50th legislature begins. After the many successes for CAP and our pro-life and pro-family allies last session, we’re looking forward to working with legislators to advance legislation that promotes life, expands school choice, defends family values, and affirms religious liberty.

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events that will provide you the opportunity to join us in our work to promote and defend foundational values:

  • Opening Day of Session Prayer Walk, January 9 I’m sure you’ve heard me say it before, but prayer is at the core of everything we do at CAP. Scripture calls us to pray for our leaders. Accordingly, we will once again observe opening day with our annual Prayer Walk around the state Capitol this Monday from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. More details are here.
  • “Do You Know Lacy” Training Event to Prevent Child Sex Slavery, January 12-13  The Do You Know Lacy?training is an all-day, five-track community training. You will learn about the national issue of domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST), hear the personal account of a survivor, better understand what conditions make children vulnerable to trafficking, and learn the methods of pimp control, and why victims don’t self-identify or flee. There are two opportunities to participate:
    • Phoenix – January 12, 8:30 a.m. at Christ’s Church of the Valley. Register here.
    • Tucson – January 13, 8:30 a.m. at Manning House. Register here.
  • Religious Freedom Day, January 16 Governor Brewer has once again declared a Religious Freedom Day to “celebrate the first liberties enshrined in the bill of rights, which guarantees the free exercise of religion for all Americans.” (It’s important to note how blessed we are to have a governor that is not afraid to speak out for our religious liberty in the face harsh criticism). You can read Governor Brewer’s proclamation here. Our friends at Alliance Defense Fund and Gateways to a Better Education have created a free resource for churches to celebrate Religious Freedom Day here.
  • Recapture America, Tucson, January 29 CAP and Family Research Council are co-sponsoring an evening with Lt. General Jerry Boykin, Kenyn Cureton, and myself on Sunday, January 29, at 6:30 p.m. We’ll focus on the future of our state and nation, the critical nature of the 2012 elections, and how you can make a difference in your community. Admission is free; click here for more.
  • Wait No More Adoption Conference, Scottsdale, February 11 More than 350 children in foster care in Arizona need adoptive families. It’s time for the church to step up and address a great need facing our state. The Wait No More conference provides you with information about what it takes to adopt and sincerely bless and change the course of a child’s life. Sponsored by Focus on the Family, CAP, No Child Waiting Coalition, Christian Family Care Agency, and others, the conference will be at Scottsdale Bible Church. Click here to register and for more details.
Filed Under: Family, Religion, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: ,

7/10, 419, 101, 1500: 2011 by the Numbers

December 16, 2011 By

7/10, 419, 4, 101, 1,500 – The 2011 highlights for Arizona families can be painted by the numbers. Here are five victories I’m most grateful for:
1) 7 Out of 10
Yavapai County Planned Parenthood that no longer offers abortion
Following our victory in the State Court of Appeals upholding the Abortion Consent Act, Planned Parenthood announced they would end abortion services at 7 of their 10 Arizona locations. This led to our next unexpected success…

2) 419 Lives  

The combination of Planned Parenthood ending abortion services at 7 of their 10 clinics with the new informed consent provisions in the Abortion Consent Act led to 419 fewer abortions performed from August to October of 2011, compared to the same time in 2010. This work is saving lives!

3) Winning in Court – 4 MAJOR Cases  

Cathi Outside Court of Appeals after ACA
Me outside the State Court of Appeals following oral arguments in the
Abortion Consent Act

 

  • The Arizona Court of Appeals upheld the Abortion Consent Act. Now in Arizona, minors must have notarized parental consent before an abortion, women must have an in-person consultation with a doctor at least 24 hours before an abortion, health care workers are protected from being forced to participate in abortions against their religious beliefs, and non-doctors cannot perform surgical abortions.
  • The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the CAP-supported Scholarship Tax Credit Program which provides tens of thousands of scholarships every year to ensure children can attend the school of their parent’s choice.
  • In a CAP-defended case, the U.S. Court of Appeals in the Ninth Circuit ruled the City of Yuma violated the religious liberty rights of a church when the city forced the church out of their downtown location because Yuma felt the church “didn’t fit in” with what they wanted downtown.
  • A U.S. District Court dismissed a baseless lawsuit against Governor Jan Brewer filed by the “Freedom From Religion Foundation.” The Foundation filed the lawsuit against the governor for her proclamation of the Arizona Day of Prayer.

4) 101 Bills  

At our spring dinner, Gov. Brewer signs CAP-supported legislation ensuring that an ultrasound is performed before an abortion.
Sixteen CAP-supported bills were signed into law in 2011, bringing the total number of CAP-supported bills enacted into law to 101. Thirty-eight of these bills were signed into law in the last three years alone. In 2011, a CAP-supported resolution honoring pregnancy care centers and a CAP-supported judicial reform ballot measure also passed.

5) 1,500+ Come to Put Their Faith in Action

                      Dr. Del Tackett speaking at the Faith in Action Tour
More than 1,500 people attended our Faith in Action Tour at Bethany Bible Church to discover how to be a part of the movement to transform our state through service.


Meeting the Challenge 

These are just a few of the highlights of 2011 – I could go on and on about how God equipped our work this year, enabling us to meet many challenges and opportunities. But we still have one major challenge to overcome this year and we need your help.

With less than two weeks remaining in this year, we still have not met our 2011 budget needs. Our team has been meeting this week to prepare to take on the many challenges and opportunities that await us in 2012. To forge ahead in a strong position, it’s essential that we finish this year in a strong financial position.

CAP is entirely funded by generous families like yours that believe in our work and want to partner with us – we receive no government grants or funding. Would you help us meet this final challenge of 2011 by giving an online gift today? Any support you can provide would be sincerely appreciated.

Contribute

(Or you can send us a gift in the mail: PO Box 97250, Phoenix, AZ 85060)

We all know what’s on the line in 2012, especially with the upcoming election. At Center for Arizona Policy, we are prepared and more than willing and ready to accomplish so much more in the months and years to come. Thank you for your support! 

Filed Under: Education, Family, Religion, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , ,

Marriage: It’s What’s Good for Children

December 9, 2011 By

Marriage: It’s What’s Good for Children
Many today have forgotten the common good marriage between one man and one woman provides for our culture. A challenge we all face is how to restore marriage to its valued place of honor and importance. Marriage is a positive good for our country – it’s life-giving.Over the last few decades, marriage has been devalued through no-fault divorce, cohabitation, and even those that want to redefine marriage altogether.Perhaps no one has suffered more from the decline in the value of marriage than children. Yet many deny and fail to understand the negative impact divorce and court decisions redefining marriage have on children.Thankfully, as more research becomes available on the harms of cohabitation and divorce on children, policy makers are stepping up to address these problems. Last session, the Arizona Legislature passed a CAP-supported divorce reform bill, which adds information about the effects of divorce on adults and children to the mandatory parenting education classes for divorcing parents of minor children and allows couples to ask for additional time to reconcile before a divorce is finalized.On the Witherspoon Institute’s Public Discourse blog, Professor Helen Alvaré writes about how across the country more officials are beginningto recognize the impact bad policy on marriage has on children.Another excellent resource is Why Marriage Matters by the Institute for American Values, which documents thirty conclusions from the social sciences on why marriage is good for our country.
Alan Chambers in the Lion’s Den
World magazine has named Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International, as their 2011 Daniel. Exodus ministers to those struggling with homosexuality.
I applaud World for their selection. Take time to read the article. Most importantly, take time to pray for Alan and the Exodus team who daily come under constant assault and attack from the media and opponents. You can send your encouragements to him on Twitter, @alanmchambers.

Frontline Public Policy Experience
CAP is now accepting intern applications for policy and communication interns to serve during the upcoming legislative session. Interning with CAP during session provides college students with real-life experience down at the state Capitol working in public policy. Click here for details of both positions. Please forward this opportunity to those who might be interested and qualified.

Exploiting the Poor
On the Foundations blog this week, CAP Legislative Coordinator Dave Ernest explores how gambling – either at a casino or through the lottery – exploits the poor. He presents yet another case why the expansion of gambling is never right for our state.

Good, But Unexpected, News
The abortion industry has a long history of putting their agenda ahead of the health and safety of women – and especially of minor girls. Pushing for over-the-counter availability of the “morning-after” pill is just one of the many ways their lobbying puts women at risk.
In a surprising turn of events this week, Kathleen Sebelius, the head of the federal Health and Human Services Department and an outspoken abortion advocate, overruled an FDA decision that would have made the morning-after pill, which can act as an abortifacient, available over the counter to girls younger than 17 without a prescription. Read more about this decision from Family Research Council.

CA Marriage Amendment Back in Court
Yesterday, our friends at ProtectMarriage.com and Alliance Defense Fund were back in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to defend the majority of Californians who voted to protect marriage as the union of one man and one woman.
Read more about this hearing, and why a lower court’s ruling, which overturned the marriage amendment, had some serious problems.
Filed Under: Family, Gaming, LGBT, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , ,

Never Let Our Guard Down

December 2, 2011 By 222 Comments

Never Let Our Guard Down
Just a little over three years ago, 56% of Arizona voters decided to add these 20 simple words to our state Constitution:

Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.

While the marriage amendment victory was a critical step to protecting marriage in Arizona, we would be foolish to think our work is done to ensure marriage is never redefined. A recent poll from the liberal Public Policy Polling group claims a smaller margin of Arizona voters now support traditional marriage – 45% say same-sex “marriage” should be illegal, and 44% say it should be legal. Their poll also says that a majority of voters think that Arizona should establish marriage counterfeits like domestic partnerships.

Of course, the poll did not ask whether marriage should be defined as only the union of one man and one woman. The questions were not exactly neutral, and the polling company typically works for those who want to redefine marriage. The obvious intent is to begin laying a foundation to ask Arizona voters to redefine marriage in the next ten years or so.

The poll shows the “never give up” commitment of marriage opponents to eventually win on the marriage issue. These organizations are well funded and are well organized. Marriage opponents will be out registering voters and working hard to influence the 2012 elections. At CAP, our team will never let our guard down in our stand to see marriage stay the union of one man and one woman.

Intern with CAP!
The next legislative session is just a month away, and we’re looking for policy and communications interns for the upcoming legislative session. This is a great opportunity to get first-hand experience working in public policy down at the state legislature. If you know any college students interested, please help us spread the word!
 

Christmas Giving and Tax Credits
I hope you will join me in participating in Arizona’s tax credit opportunities, subject to your accountant’s advice. These programs allow you to give a gift up to a certain amount to schools and non profit organizations and receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit back for your gift. Here are a few ways to give, and some organizations that have really made a positive impact on our community:

  • Public School Tax Credit: Individuals can receive a tax credit for donations up to $200 and couples up to $400 that go towards extra curricular programs at public or charter schools. Consider giving your public school tax credit to schools in impoverished areas of our state. One to consider is Fay Landrum Academy in south Phoenix.
  • Individual Tax Credit: School Tuition Organizations like Arizona Christian School Tuition Organization (ACSTO), Tuition Organization for Private Schools (TOPS), and Arizona Private Education Scholarship Fund, provide scholarships to thousands of families to choose a private school that best meets their children’s needs. Individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on gifts up to $500, and married couples up to $1,000. Click here to view a complete list of School Tuition Organizations.
  • Charitable Tax Credit: Like the public school credit, individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for gifts up to $200 and married couples can receive a tax credit for gifts up to $400. Consider supporting one of the pregnancy care centers that qualify for the charitable tax credit. Or consider supporting Christian Family Care and their work to find homes for kids in foster care through their Connect One program. Click here to view the complete list of organizations that are eligible for the Charitable Tax Credit.
Filed Under: Family, Marriage, Taxation Tagged With: , , ,

Not the Way Out

November 18, 2011 By 1 Comment

Not the Way Out

The budget crisis across the country is on everyone’s mind. Just this week, our national debt topped $15 trillion. In Arizona, our leaders are seeking ways to responsibly meet our own state budget needs.

As the Legislature searches for ways to balance our state budget, with some wanting to increase state revenues, I am becoming increasingly concerned that the expansion of gambling is being considered. Changing our state laws to allow casinos at racetracks – “racinos” – would dramatically change the character of our state and impact families.

Legislators shouldn’t balance the budget on the backs of Arizona’s families. The harms of gambling, while not often discussed, are very real. You can read more of on this on the Foundations blog.

Thankfully, more than half of the members of the House and of the Senate indicated in CAP’s 2010 Voter Guide that they would oppose “Allowing slot machines and table games off Indian reservations.” I remain confident that they will stay true to their word and not allow gambling to expand.

Still a Long Way to Go
A few weeks ago, I told you that abortions in Arizona had dropped by 30% in September, according to newly released Department of Health Services data. This week, DHS released updated numbers showing that the decrease in numbers continues but not at the 30% pace originally reported. The good news is that abortions still dropped by 417 over the last three months compared to the same time period in 2010. No doubt the drop in abortions directly resulted from the court decision upholding the Abortion Consent Act, the enactment of Arizona’s ultrasound requirement, and Planned Parenthood’s ending abortion services at seven of their ten clinics.

The new data, however, deeply troubles me because 179 preborn children have been aborted at 20 and 21 weeks from January-October 2011, and children can survive outside of the womb at 20 weeks. It’s a sign of how much work remains when babies who could clearly survive outside their mother’s wombs are not surviving inside their mother’s womb.

Key Victory for Marriage Proponents in California
Finally, good news from California’s Prop 8 litigation! The California Supreme Court ruled yesterday that the ProtectMarriage.com legal team can defend the state marriage amendment in court. You may recall that the state governor and attorney general both refused to defend the marriage amendment on behalf of the voters. Yesterday’s decision puts in place the strongest legal team to represent the right of voters to define marriage.

All eyes are on the Prop 8 case, Perry v Brown, as it likely will determine whether individual states have the right to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman or whether the federal courts will take away that right.

Weak Arguments
Also this week, a federal court judge heard arguments from the state and the ACLU about a CAP-supported bill that disqualifies donations to organizations that provide, promote, pay for, or provide referrals for abortion from being eligible for the working poor tax credit. The ACLU, representing the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, is arguing that Arizona should be forced to provide the benefit of the working poor tax credit to organizations that refer women for abortion.

CAP is supporting the state’s defense. On the Foundations blog this week, our Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby explains why the ACLU’s case is based on weak arguments.
Filed Under: Family, Gaming, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Tuesday’s Election Results

November 11, 2011 By 13 Comments

Tuesday’s Election Results
For some conservatives, Tuesday’s elections across the country were a disappointment. I caution you to not read too much into these election results. No doubt, though, our work is cut out for us in the 2012 elections to register voters, educate voters, and turn out values voters.

I’ve been asked about the defeat of the “Personhood Amendment” in Mississippi. The intent of this amendment was to define life as beginning at conception and stop legalized abortion. Previously, Colorado had defeated a similar amendment twice. Nevada proponents are working to put the amendment on their next ballot.

While I support the goal behind “Personhood,” I join with many other national pro-life leaders and strategists in favoring a different approach in our efforts to protect preborn life and mothers. I do not consider the Mississippi results to be a setback for the pro-life movement. Rather, the pro-life movement continues to move forward with 86 new pro-life laws passing this year alone in states. Those laws are resulting in fewer abortions. Our U.S. House has a pro-life majority. Further, in recent years, more and more people continue to identify themselves as “pro-life” instead of “pro-choice.” The dream of living in a country that respects the sanctity of human life from its very beginning to its natural end is not far-fetched. To get there though, it will take wise leadership, patience, and most importantly prayer.

Regarding the recall of Senate President Russell Pearce in Legislative District 18, I thank Sen. Pearce for his unwavering stands through the years in defense of preborn life, school choice, religious liberty, and marriage. Sen. Pearce never hesitated to support CAP’s legislative agenda. He always was available to help us move bills through the process and speak out in support of life, marriage and family, and religious liberty.
The Arizona legislature is still overwhelmingly pro-life and pro-family, with a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate. I am looking forward to working with the legislature in the upcoming session to promote and defend foundational values.

Marriage Opponents in Corporate America
You may be surprised to learn that 70 corporations – including some of our country’s most recognizable brands – filed a friend-of-the-court brief in support of overturning the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in a federal lawsuit.

Microsoft, Starbucks, Google, NIKE, Levi Strauss and Co., CBS, Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mass., Time Warner Cable, and Xerox all signed onto the brief filed in the case of Commonwealth of Massachusetts v. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, urging the court to deem DOMA unconstitutional.
This is a growing and disturbing trend in the country. Individuals determined to completely redefine marriage are working behind the scenes in positions of power throughout corporate America to radically change the most important institution in our culture and isolate those of us who believe in the true definition of marriage.
Other examples include when TOMS Shoes, a for-profit organization that donates shoes to children in Africa for every pair sold, broke off a partnership with Focus on the Family due to pressure from homosexual activists. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz buckled under the same pressure and canceled a speaking engagement at Willow Creek Community Church because of their biblical views on sexuality.
Pray that those within these corporations who support foundational principles, especially marriage, would stand up and oppose these moves.
William Wilberforce Award
I was honored to receive the news that I will be awarded the William Wilberforce Award at the First Annual Students for Life West Coast Gala tomorrow for my efforts to promote and defend life in public policy.
Defending the sanctity of human life has been one of God’s great callings in my life, and I am truly blessed to be receiving this award named for one of my heroes, the great abolitionist William Wilberforce.
I am grateful to Students for Life for the recognition, and I share this award with our amazing team at Center for Arizona Policy – both past and present – and with all of our ministry friends.

Forced to Perform Abortions
Read the story of the 12 nurses whose employer is trying to force them to participate in abortions on the Foundations blog, and how, thanks to the Abortion Consent Act, Arizona’s healthcare professionals are free from this type of persecution.

 
Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Conservatives, Elected Officials, Family, LGBT, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , ,

Students for Life of America Honors Cathi Herrod with Wilberforce Leadership Award

November 10, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Dear Friends,

I am thrilled to announce that this Saturday, SFLA will honor Cathi Herrod, President of the Center for Arizona Policy (CAP), with our Wilberforce Leadership Award for her outstanding efforts within the pro-life movement in the state of Arizona!

Mrs. Herrod will be honored at the Students for Life of America Inaugural West Coast Gala in Phoenix, Arizona this Saturday, November 12th, at the Arizona Biltmore Resort. (For more information on the Gala or to purchase tickets, please visit www.sfla2011gala.com.)

The Wilberforce Leadership Award is named about the British social justice and human rights activist, William Wilberforce, who led the fight to abolish the slave trade and was successful in helping to end slavery in Great Britain. SFLA’s awards two pro-life leaders each year who, like Wilberforce, are working to create, enforce, and uphold laws that will eventually abolish the greatest human rights threat our nation faces in abortion.

As President of CAP, Cathi has spearheaded a number of pro-life initiatives that have gained national notoriety and have affected policies and regulations across the U.S. Most notably, in February of 2009, the Arizona Legislature, along with Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and under Mrs. Herrod’s influence, enacted into law HB2564, known as the Abortion Consent Act.

Key provisions of this important legislation included:

  • A notarized parental signature is required before an abortion can be performed on a minor child.
  • Abortionists must provide women with full and accurate information, in-person at least 24 hours before an abortion.
  • Medical professionals cannot be forced to perform abortions if it contradicts their religious or moral beliefs.
  • Non-doctors are not permitted to perform surgical abortions.

Under Cathi’s leadership, CAP has helped pass state legislation that has banned partial-birth abortion (1997), revised abortion clinic safety standards (2000), prohibited nurses from performing surgical abortions (2002), ended taxpayer-funded insurance coverage for government employees’ abortions (2010), required ultrasounds before abortions, banned telemedicine abortions, and improved safety standards for abortion facilities (2011), among many others. For a list of other CAP supported bills that have become Arizona Law, click here: http://www.azpolicy.org/center-supported-bills.

Because of her work in Arizona, Cathi has helped reduce abortions and save countless lives. She is an inspiration to all young pro-life leaders who seek a career like Cathi’s that will allow them to make a difference and end the horrific practice of abortion. Cathi could not be more deserving of this honor, and I look forward to presenting it to her this Saturday!

If you would like to send Cathi a note of thanks and encouragement, please e-mail her at cathi_herrod@azpolicy.org.

For Life,

Kristen Hawkins

Students

Filed Under: Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , ,

Center for Arizona Policy: There’s a lot on the line

November 4, 2011 By

There’s a lot on the line
In just four days, three very important elections will be taking place in Arizona that will have a profound impact on the state for years to come. In Tucson and Phoenix, voters will be electing new mayors. In Legislative District 18, voters are faced with a historic recall election between current Senate President Russell Pearce and challenger Jerry Lewis.CAP has published Voter Guides in all three of these elections on azvoterguide.com. City elections particularly are often overlooked, but local governments are playing an increasingly larger role in the lives of Arizona families. If you live in these communities, do not sit out these races! Be informed, and vote your values. If you don’t live in these communities, be sure your friends and family cast their ballots.One last important point – if you received an early ballot, it is too late to mail it in. For your vote to count, you must drop it off at an election center.
There’s a lot on the line, Part II
I’ve been getting asked “What’s up with this redistricting fiasco?” Make no mistake – what happens with redistricting of Arizona’s congressional and legislative district boundaries will determine the makeup of Arizona’s congressional delegation and State Legislature for the next 10 years. Don’t believe all you read in the newspapers.In 2000, voters approved Proposition 106 to establish a five-person “Independent Redistricting Commission” (IRC) to draw district lines rather than leave the task to the State Legislature. This commission is made up of two Republicans, two Democrats, and one Independent, who serves as the commission chair.The district lines drawn by the IRC must meet several constitutional requirements. Read a legal overview of the process here. Numerous and very serious legal questions have been raised about whether this year’s IRC has conducted a fair and open process, whether the mapping consultant and independent chair have political biases, and whether the draft district lines follow the constitutionally required criteria – like ensuring communities of interest are together and that the districts are geographically compact.
This week, Governor Jan Brewer and the State Senate concluded the IRC had not followed the constitutional requirements for redistricting. Pursuant to the authority granted to them by Prop 106, Gov. Brewer and the Senate removed Chairwoman Colleen Mathis from the commission. Read Gov. Brewer’s statement here and the Legislature report here.What’s next? Mathis has asked the courts to intervene and block her removal. The Commission on Appellate Court Appointments is meeting Monday to discuss the process to recommend candidates to replace Mathis. Time is running short to have the new lines ready for the 2012 elections. The old lines for congressional districts cannot be used because Arizona is gaining one new congressional district due to population growth. Stay tuned – this controversy is far from over and the outcome critical to the future representation of Arizonans like you and me.

A Second Chance to Save a Marriage
No-fault divorce in America has wreaked immeasurable harm on so many families over the last 40 years. Through Covenant Marriage and divorce reform laws, CAP has workedto promote public policy that restores the meaning of marriage, and gives couples considering divorce the opportunity to reconcile.Former Georgia Supreme Court Justice Leah Sears released a bold plan to reduce unnecessary divorces, by giving couples a one-year waiting period before finalizing a divorce. According to Ms. Sears’ research, many divorces are preventable.Research over the past decade has shown that a major share of divorces (50 to 66 percent, depending on the study) occur between couples who had average happiness and low levels of conflict in the years before the divorce.I encourage you to read Ms. Sears’ recent op-ed in the Washington Post about her proposed legislation here.
Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Family, Marriage, Voters Guide Tagged With: , , ,

Man Knows Not His Time

November 1, 2011 By

Man Knows Not His Time
Yesterday I received the sad news that a dear ministry friend, Pastor Leo Godzich, passed away following a car accident while in Uganda to preach. I first met Leo twenty-five years ago when he was ministering to individuals suffering from AIDS. Through the years, Leo and I worked together on Arizona’s laws to establish a covenant marriage license, funding for marriage skills instruction, divorce reform, and Arizona’s state constitutional marriage amendment. Leo and his wife Molly founded and led the National Association for Marriage Enhancement, a ministry dedicated to applying biblical principles to marriage. Leo dedicated his life to standing for God’s design for marriage between one man and one woman first as a pastor but also in the public policy arena. He was always available to testify on legislation or help lead the effort – whatever was needed, Leo was willing to serve and be used of God. Most recently, Leo provided valuable testimony on Arizona’s new CAP-supported lawto change our divorce laws. A longtime Sunday school leader at Phoenix First Assembly, only God knows how many married couples avoided divorce because of Leo’s teaching and ministry. Pray for his dear wife Molly and his three lovely daughters. As we work to strengthen marriage and reform divorce laws, I will miss the wisdom and leadership of this dear friend and co- laborer.
An Unknown Partnership
The American Civil Unions filed a preliminary injunction this week to block key elements of CAP-supported HB 2384from taking effect. The ACLU is trying to block the provision disallows donations to organizations that provide, promote, pay for, or provide referrals for abortion from being eligible for the working poor tax credit.The ACLU filed the case on behalf of the Arizona Domestic Violence Coalition. It may be surprising to many people that the Domestic Violence Coalition has close ties to the abortion industry. It’s outrageous that the coalition would fight so vehemently in order to be able to promote abortion to the vulnerable women that seek their care. Like every bill CAP supports, we are committed to seeing this law defended in court and upheld.
Be Aware: Porn Harms
Pornography is now more readily accessible than at any other time in history. In recent years, pornography has invaded the cell phone, tablet, and video game console market, using every leap in technology as a way to stretch its ugly tentacles into homes.A CAP ally, Arizona Family Council, has helped organize a national Internet campaign for next week’s White Ribbon Against Pornography Week. Live webinars and Internet events will be available daily for families and communities to learn more about the fight against illegal pornography. For more information, check out pornharms.com/beaware or visit their Facebook page.
Filed Under: Family, Marriage, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , ,

The Turning Point

September 30, 2011 By

The Turning Point 
A new study by the National Conference on Citizenship reports that Arizonans have become more engaged in the political process. Since 2006, voter turnout has surged, raising Arizona’s ranking from 33rd to 18th in the nation. The spike in voter registration is even steeper – boosting our rank from 48th to 27th.Consider what’s happened in our state to understand why this is so significant. In 2006, Arizona became the only state to vote against a state constitutional amendment to protect marriage. This wake-up call was a turning point for values voters. In 2008, Arizonans passed Proposition 102 to define marriage in Arizona’s constitution as only the union of one man and one woman. The victory resulted from a strong campaign to register those who supported one man, one woman marriage and to turn out those voters. The victory also resulted from a strong coalition of Arizonans from differing faiths, ethnicities, and political persuasions coming together around a shared value.But that’s not all. Those same voters elected a pro-life, pro-family legislature in 2008 and again in 2010. In the last three years alone, 38 CAP-supported bills that promote and defend foundational principles have been signed into law, raising the total number of CAP-supported bills that have become law to 101. People are waking up in Arizona to the fact that what happens at the polls and at the state Capitol impacts their family. You can make a difference! As we look ahead to the 2012 elections, the stakes are even higher than before. It’s critical that we all are registered to vote, are informed, and turn out to make sure our voice is heard.
New Lawsuit Attacks School Choice 
The Arizona School Boards Association and Arizona Education Association (the teachers union) have sued to overturn Arizona’s new law establishing empowerment scholarships. The law, advocated for by CAP and our school choice allies, provides parents of children with special needs the opportunity to redirect state funds for the education and educational services that best meet their children’s needs. The facts are parents know what’s best for their children, and the state should empower them to make decisions about their education. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen school board members allow your taxpayer dollars to be used to fight school choice measures. CAP is committed to standing with school choice and parents’ rights advocates to defeat this lawsuit.

Congress Investigating Planned Parenthood 
The U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee will be investigating Planned Parenthood Federation of America for improprieties regarding how Planned Parenthood uses federal dollars. This is a great first step to holding America’s largest abortion franchise accountable. Click here to read the letter Rep. Cliff Stearns sent to Planned Parenthood. Click here to read Americans United for Life’s report on Planned Parenthood.

Maricopa County Community College’s Bad Move  
In a 3-2 decision this week, the Maricopa County Community College Board approved adding “gender-identity” to their non-discrimination policy. In a letter I sent to the Board prior to the vote, I explained why this vague policy should be rejected. You can read my letter here.It’s important to realize that the Maricopa County Community College Board is accountable to the voters. We see again why every election matters, especially when it comes to promoting and defending foundational principles.
Gov. Brewer Fights Back Against Radical Ninth Circuit Court Decision  
Also earlier this week, Governor Brewer filed a petition requesting all of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to review a recent ruling by a three judge panel that would essentially force the state to provide health insurance benefits to domestic partners. Domestic partnerships devalue marriage – the cornerstone of our culture. The legislature and Governor Brewer were acting within their authority when they said that only spouses should receive health benefits from the state, and I applaud Governor Brewer for not allowing this bad decision from the Court to stand.

If You’ve Been Through The Truth Project  
For those of you who have been through The Truth Project, you won’t want to miss two big events featuring some familiar faces from the small group study. First, on October 16, Ravi Zacharias is speaking at the new Grand Canyon University Arena. Click hereto get your tickets.Then on October 29, CAP and Truth in Action Ministries are bringing in Dr. Del Tackett for the Faith in Action Tourto help you discover how to transform your community through service.If you haven’t experienced The Truth Project, these are great opportunities to hear from two of the country’s most inspiring and thought-provoking teachers.
Filed Under: Education, LGBT, Marriage, Sanctity of Life, Voter Registration Tagged With: , , ,

Speak Up to Protect Rights of Conscience

September 23, 2011 By 93 Comments

Speak Up to Protect Rights of Conscience 
The federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has proposed a new rule under Obamacare that would force all private health insurance plans to cover contraceptive and sterilization services free of charge, including “contraceptives” that can act as abortifacients like the “morning-after pill.” The rule has a very narrow exception for churches and does not allow exceptions for other employers or organizations that have a moral or religious objection to paying for abortifacients. HHS is accepting comments about this rule through September 30, and our allies at Family Research Council Action have provided this Action Alert so you can speak up for the rights of conscience of millions of Americans. Please take action today!

 

Maricopa Community Colleges to Vote on “Gender Identity” Policy 
Next Tuesday, September 27, the Maricopa County Community College Board will hold a final vote on a proposal to add “gender identity” to the district’s non-discrimination policy.

The proposal would have a direct, negative impact on the classroom and college workplace by creating unnecessary distractions. Further, it would have a serious impact on the right of faculty, staff, and students to live by and freely express their sincerely held religious or moral beliefs. You can read my letter to the Board for more explanation of why this policy is such a bad idea.

Please contact your Community College Board Member below and politely tell them that you oppose the change and want to preserve religious freedom on our campuses:

Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa -

Contact Mr. Doyle Burke, doyle.burke@domail.maricopa.edu

Scottsdale, East Mesa -

Contact Mr. Dana Saar, dana.saar@domail.maricopa.edu

Phoenix, Paradise Valley -

Contact Mrs. Debra Pearson, debra.pearson@domail.maricopa.edu

Glendale, Peoria, Surprise -

Contact Mr. Randolph Elias Lumm, randolph.lumm@domail.maricopa.edu

South Phoenix, Goodyear -

Contact Dr. Donald Campbell, don.campbell@domail.maricopa.edu

 

Federal Legislation to Stop Gambling Expansion 
Last Friday, Arizona Congressman Trent Franks announced that he will introduce a new bill in Congress to stop gambling expansion in Arizona’s metropolitan areas, particularly the new casino proposed in Glendale by the Tohono O’odham tribe.

Gambling is bad for Arizona families and communities, and it costs far more socially and economically than any financial benefits. In fact, a new report from the Stop Predatory Gambling Foundation details how most of the casino owners, lobbyists, and government officials who most strongly promote gambling don’t gamble themselves and don’t want to live near gambling because they know how destructive and financially irresponsible it is.

Gambling is illegal in Arizona and is permitted on tribal lands only through special compacts signed in 2002. The Tohono O’odham tribe has proposed this new casino over 100 miles away from their original reservation, in the heart of a fast-growing West Valley urban area, across the street from a high school.

Congressman Franks’ legislation would stop this ill-advised casino by prohibiting Las Vegas-style gambling on land in Pinal, Pima, and Maricopa counties that is not part of the tribe’s original reservation. The bill is supported by Attorney General Tom Horne, Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs, Chairwoman Diane Enos of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and dozens of other state, local, and tribal officials. Read the Gila Bend Indian Reservation Lands Replacement Clarification Act online.

 

Faith in Action Tour  
In case you missed the news, Center for Arizona Policy (CAP) is hosting a very special event on October 29 with Dr. Del Tackett, creator of The Truth Project. The goal is to help you discover how God can use you to impact our community, engage you with local organizations to explore specific opportunities to make a difference right where you live, and transform our community by putting God’s Word into action.

You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to see Del speak live and connect with local ministries. Register now online or call 602.424.2525. Hope to see you there.
Filed Under: Family, Health Care, LGBT Tagged With: , , , ,

Another Step Closer

September 16, 2011 By 17 Comments

Another Step Closer
This week’s announcement that Planned Parenthood will not appeal to the Arizona Supreme Court a Court of Appeals ruling which upheld the Abortion Consent Act is one more step in the right direction for our state.

This doesn’t mean that the court battles over the protection of women’s health and safety and preborn children are over, but it does mean that some significant safety standards will be going into effect.

Along with the Abortion Clinic Regulations that took effect last November, here are some of the protections for women with crisis pregnancies:

  • Non-doctors cannot perform an abortion or distribute the dangerous abortion pill.
  • A parent’s signature must be notarized before an abortion can be performed on a minor-child.
  • Medical professionals can’t be forced to perform abortions against their sincerely held religious or moral beliefs.
  • Women must have an ultrasound and the opportunity to view the image before an abortion.
  • Doctors cannot distribute the abortion pill via webcam also known as telemedicine.
  • Women must have an in-person consultation with a doctor at least 24 hours before an abortion.

For a complete explanation of all the abortion litigation, click here.

The only remaining litigation regarding CAP-supported pro-life legislation concerns the distribution of abortion medication. All aspects of these regulations are in effect, except a provision saying women must be monitored at the clinic after taking the abortion pill.

Planned Parenthood Caught in Another Lie
The Arizona Republic ran a fact check on statements made by Planned Parenthood Arizona’s CEO Bryan Howard this week and, not surprisingly, found the statements to be completely false. Planned Parenthood’s smear campaign against the common sense provisions in the Abortion Consent Act included a claim that the standards would force doctors to read a state-mandated script to women before an abortion.

The Republic cited the actual law, and showed how the regulations say nothing about reading a script. Instead, the law provides guidelines with certain aspects of an abortion that must be discussed with a woman, in order to ensure she is able to give full and informed consent. Read the fact check here.

40 Days for Life in Phoenix
You may recall that in a June 5 Minutes for Families, I told you about a Phoenix Magazine story about Camelback Family Planning and their head abortionist, Gabrielle Goodrick. The article claimed that Goodrick shockingly performs an average of 40 abortions per week.

The next 40 Days for Life campaign here in Phoenix will be outside Ms. Goodrick’s clinic. 40 Days for Life is a pro-life effort that consists of 40 days of prayer and fasting, peaceful vigils outside abortion clinics, and community outreach. Lives have been saved thanks to 40 Days for Life. This campaign will run from September 28 – November 6. Click here for details and to find out how to get involved.
Filed Under: Family, Judicial, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , ,

“Another Daffy Ninth Circuit Ruling”

September 9, 2011 By 55 Comments

“Another Daffy Ninth Circuit Ruling”
So writes Ed Whelan about this week’s Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision on an Arizona law regarding domestic partner benefits. The Court upheld a temporary injunction blocking a 2009 bill that limits state employee benefits for dependents to married employees. The law, signed by Governor Brewer, reversed a Napolitano administration order granting employee dependent benefits to unmarried domestic partners.

The majority of Arizonans favor marriage being recognized only as the union of one man and one woman. Arizona public policy as determined by our state elected officials does not recognize sexual orientation or domestic partners as a protected group in our anti-discrimination laws. Yet the Court has sided with homosexual activists and their agenda to make marriage laws meaningless through the granting of legal recognition and benefits to same sex partners. The Court’s opinion is another example of judges making law, not interpreting the law. Determining eligibility of benefits for state employees is a policy matter to be decided by the legislative and executive branches, not by the judicial branch.

This battle is not over. I fully expect the Brewer administration to appeal. Please click here to send Governor Brewer an email thanking her for her support and encouraging her to continue the fight to uphold Arizona’s law limiting state employee dependent benefits to married employees.
Censored by the Court 
I want to share with you a little known story behind this ongoing litigation. With CAP as the named party, the Alliance Defense Fund filed a friend-of-the-court brief in this case explaining why it’s important that benefits only be distributed based on marital status. The Ninth Circuit Court refused to accept our brief, even though they accepted briefs from two homosexual activist organizations.
California Continues to Fight for Marriage
The ongoing legal battle over California’s Proposition 8 marriage amendment had another hearing this week. The legal defense team at Protectmarriage.com argued for their right to intervene in the case on behalf of the 7 million voters who passed Prop 8. Both the California Governor and Attorney General have refused to defend Prop 8. Read the hopeful report from our friends at the California Family Policy Council on the hearing here.

Once again, we see why elections matter, and why it is critical to elect officials that recognize the essential role of the family and marriage in society. It’s unconscionable that duly elected officials are refusing to carry out their duty to defend laws passed by the people.
Faith in Action Tour
In case you missed the news, CAP along with Truth in Action Ministries is hosting a very special event on October 29 with Dr. Del Tackett, creator of The Truth Project. Our goal is to help you discover how God can use you to impact our community, engage you with local organizations to explore specific opportunities to make a difference right where you live, and transform our community by putting God’s Word into action.

You won’t want to miss this rare opportunity to see Del speak live and connect with local ministries. Click here to register – hope to see you there!
Filed Under: Family, Government, Judicial, LGBT, Marriage Tagged With: , , , ,

Teachers, Planned Parenthood, and Candidate Recruitment

September 2, 2011 By 33 Comments

Teachers, Planned Parenthood, and Candidate Recruitment
You may or may not be surprised to hear that the union representing Arizona teachers – Arizona Education Association – and Planned Parenthood once again are teaming up to recruit and train “progressive” candidates. Planned Parenthood’s opposition to our work to protect life and the health and safety of women is well documented. So is the Arizona Education Association’s opposition to letting parents choose the best school setting for their children. It’s outrageous, though, for a union representing teachers to be aligned with an organization that exhibits little regard for human life. I also doubt that many rank and file teachers support their union’s position.

True Tolerance in Schools 
Our friends at Focus on the Family and CitizenLink have published a new resource for parents and teachers facing “tolerance” issues in schools. Over the past few years, we’ve seen how the homosexual lobby has worked through the public schools to undermine a parent’s right to direct the upbringing and education of their children. They use words and phrases like “tolerance” and “anti-hate” to advance their agenda. Yet this isn’t an issue of tolerance or hate; it’s about parents’ rights, and what’s appropriate for a classroom setting.
The resources at TrueTolerance.org will equip you to know your rights this school year. On the site, you’ll find:

  • Tips on how to respond to homosexual activism in schools.
  • Dos and don’ts for parents on approaching school officials with concerns.
  • Examples of homosexual-themed books and classroom materials parents should know about.
  • Model anti-bullying policy that provides strong protection for kids without unnecessarily sexualizing and politicizing the issue.
  • Legal memorandums on parental rights and religious freedoms that individuals can email directly to their school officials.
  • Latest statistics for parents to help communicate their viewpoint in a loving and fact-based way.

Also, be sure to consult the Arizona parents’ rights law or call CAP Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby should you face public school issues.
A Fruitful Fall
Enjoy your Labor Day weekend then plan to join us at these fall evens to make a difference in our state. Be sure to mark these dates on your calendar!

  • Faith in Action Tour with Dr. Del Tackett: So you’ve gone through The Truth Project, but now what? How do you take what you learned and turn it into action that can transform our community? CAP, in collaboration with Truth in Action Ministries and Dr. Del Tackett, is hosting a special event on October 29 to equip you to transform our state through service. Even if you haven’t experienced The Truth Project small group, this is a great opportunity to hear from an inspiring teacher and connect with local community service organizations. Click here for more and to register.
  • Eleven11, Bringing Prayer to Public High Schools: Starting September 2nd, eleven11 will be traveling to eleven different public schools hosting 26 hours of prayer at each location. They are gathering to pray for the students and families of Arizona. Click here to sign up for an hour and to find a school near you.
  • 9-11 Remembrance Event: You are invited to a special 9-11 remembrance event at Peoria Sports Complex. The event will start at 2 p.m. on September 11 and ends at 9 p.m. Click here for details.
  • Arizona Right to Life Conference: On Friday and Saturday, September 23-24, join Arizona Right to Life for their education conference. You’ll connect with 300+ pro-life men and women all who support the dignity of life from conception to natural death. You will also get the latest updates on the battle for life at the legislature and in the courtroom, interact with pro-life elected officials, and learn more about the new 40 Days for Life prayer campaign in Phoenix. CAP Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby and I both will be presenting workshops. Get more details and register online.
  • Family Research Council’s Values Voter Summit: Consider joining me at FRC’s annual Value Voter Summit October 7-9 in Washington D.C.  This year, confirmed attendees include Michelle Bachman, Rick Perry, Rick Santorum, and John Boehner. You’ll find details online.
Filed Under: Arizona Politics, Campaigns & Elections, Education, Family, LGBT, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , ,

Doctors Make the “Choice” Not to Do Abortions

August 26, 2011 By 29 Comments

Doctors Make the “Choice” Not to Do Abortions
There’s more to the story of last week’s announcement from Planned Parenthood to shut down abortion services at seven locations rather than meet the new safety standards under the Abortion Consent Act.

Planned Parenthood Arizona is running into the same roadblock the abortion industry is facing across the country: fewer doctors want to be a part of their life-destroying work.

Initial reports from a survey of 1,800 practicing ob/gyn doctors published in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that 97% of these doctors encountered patients seeking abortions, but only 14% performed them.

This finding tracks with the ongoing and growing pro-life trends throughout the country. According to a recent Gallup poll, Americans increasingly support laws to protect women from the dangerous practices of the abortion industry. The pro-life wave can also be seen in state legislatures. Americans United for Life reports that there were more than 80 pro-life laws passed this year!

On the Foundations blog, CAP Legal Counsel Deborah Sheasby looks deeper into this trend and reveals the bleak reality the abortion industry faces in Arizona.

 
Community Colleges Consider “Gender Identity” Policy

This week, the Maricopa County Community College Board heard testimony on a proposal to add “gender identity” to the district’s non-discrimination policy. You may recall proponents failed a few years ago when they tried to promote a similar policy.
Read my letter to the Board opposing the policy change here. The policy’s vagueness would create confusion among faculty and students. Further, it would have a serious impact on their right to freely express their sincerely held religious or moral beliefs. This policy could also put the colleges in conflict with the new University Student Religious Liberty Act, which was drafted and supported by CAP and became law on July 20.
 

New Pro-Life Laws to Take Effect
Maricopa County Judge Richard Gama signed off on an agreement this week between the state and Planned Parenthood to allow many of the recently passed CAP-supported pro-life laws to take effect on September 12! The agreement lifts the temporary injunction Planned Parenthood filed in July to block the laws from being enacted.

While this is not the final decision on whether Planned Parenthood’s arguments will be completely dismissed, it is great news that these important provisions will be in place soon. They include:

  • Applying health and safety standards to the distribution of the dangerous abortion pill.
  • Ensuring that only doctors dispense the abortion pill.

These laws are vital to the protection of Arizona’s women. According to the FDA, 14 women have now died from taking this medication. Read more on the Foundations blog.

 
Do You Have a Heart for Education?
CAP is preparing to launch our newest initiative: School Action Teams. We’re only one piece away – we need our School Action Team Coordinator. Is this you? Do you know someone with a heart for education and foundational principles? If so, check out the job description on Career Builder.

 
An “Invaluable Experience”
We are currently looking for fall interns for our policy team. Our internship provides students a frontlines perspective of the battle to promote and defend Arizona families. In a letter from summer intern Michal Bates, he wrote “My practical experiences in meetings, the court, writing briefs, research, prayer, and community have allowed me to cast a vision for a future career.” If you’d like to join the team this fall, click here.
Filed Under: Family, LGBT, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , ,
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