Planned Parenthood Funding Battle Stirred Back Up As Senate Considers Massive Government Spending Bill
Also in the news: Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) is focused on issues of protecting Roe v. Wade as the Senate readies to consider the Trump administration's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. And the Food and Drug Administration OKs two new forms of birth control.
The Hill:
Paul Seeks To Cut Off Planned Parenthood Funds Via Massive Spending Bill
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) wants to tie a fight over funding for Planned Parenthood to a massive government spending bill currently being debated by the Senate. Paul has filed an amendment that would prevent federal funding from going to the organization and others that perform abortions. (Carney, 8/20)
The Associated Press:
Fearful Of Losing Roe, Left Pushes Schumer For Action
At least once a week, they assemble in Capitol meeting rooms for an hour-long strategy session. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer convenes the gatherings, which regularly include several Democratic senators, a dozen Senate aides and representatives of about 20 liberal organizations. The goal: figuring out how to derail President Donald Trump’s Supreme Court pick, conservative appellate judge Brett Kavanaugh. Up to now, participants say the strategy sessions have been cordial. Yet with Senate Judiciary Committee hearings just two weeks off, cracks in the alliance are showing. (Fram, 8/20)
California Healthline:
Biorhythms And Birth Control: FDA Stirs Debate By Approving ‘Natural’ App
The Food and Drug Administration took a “big tent” approach earlier this month when it approved two new forms of birth control that prevent pregnancy in very different ways. Women’s health advocates applauded the availability of a new vaginal ring that could be used for up to a year. But some questioned the approval of a mobile phone app that helps women avoid pregnancy by tracking their body temperature and menstrual cycle, a type of contraception called “fertility awareness. (Andrews, 8/21)