In February the New England Journal of Medicine published a study showing that substantially fewer Texas women are obtaining birth control (and that birthrates are up) after the state cut Planned Parenthood from the women’s health care program. Embarrassed by the consequences of the cuts they supported, Texas Senate Finance Committee Chairwoman Jane Nelson went on the attack.
Nelson initially disputed the study's facts and methodology, despite its publication in one of the world’s top medical journals. Then she attacked the participation of state researchers in the report. Under threat of disciplinary action, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission's director of research retired.
The silence of Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who support the Planned Parenthood cuts, speaks volumes about their callous disregard for women's health care.
Do our Texas politicians really think they can hide their war on women by smearing the reputation of a respected state researcher? Speak up today.
