Devoted Catholic politicians who nevertheless support ideologically opposed bills like House Bill 40 pose a conundrum for anti-abortion groups like the Pro-Life Action League.
For example, Rep. John D’Amico (D-Chicago), a dedicated supporter of two Catholic organizations, is co-sponsor of the bill, which would allow taxpayer-funded abortions to state employees and individuals on the state's Medicaid program.
“He happens to be our representative for our area on the northwest side of Chicago,” John Jansen of the Pro-Life Action League told the Chicago City Wire. “He is a member of Queen of All Queen Saints Parish, which is terribly unfortunate. As a Catholic, he should know better. Anyone who is Catholic should oppose this bill.”
D’Amico is an active member in the Queen of All Saints Men’s Club and St. Edward’s Athletic Advisory Board. Both organizations promote Catholic views and values, including condemning abortion.
“This bill affects the entire population,” Jansen said. “We have been involved with educating constituents to vote against it.”
He said his league and other Illinois groups have urged legislative leaders to oppose the bill, and they'll continue attempts to sway those who support it, like D'Amico.
“All groups have been active, even if they are going to vote 'yes' for it," he said. "There’s rumors even some of the sponsors are having second thoughts.”
Jansen did not disclose those legislators’ names.
Gov. Bruce Rauner is one of those who oppose the bill. This week, Illinois Right to Life reported that Rauner plans to veto it, despite promising in his 2014 campaign that he would “sign legislation to ensure abortion remains legal in Illinois and to expand abortion coverage for state workers and Medicaid recipients,” according to the Northwest Herald.
“I fundamentally believe that abortion should be a woman's private decision,” Rauner wrote, according to the Chicago Tribune.
HB40 seeks to change the original State Employees Group Insurance Act of 1971 to allow taxpayer funds to be directed toward abortions under Medicaid and subsequently include abortion coverage in health care benefits for state workers.
Jansen called this an “additional expense” to Illinois taxpayers. He said if Illinois women need or want this procedure, it should be their responsibility. He said an abortion performed during the first trimester costs an average of $400 to $500.
“The state of Illinois is in dire financial need,” Jansen said. “We can’t be paying for abortions.”
Jansen also fears some legislators do not fully understand HB40, which could influence the way they vote.
“What we fear is that a lot of people that are supporting this bill are honestly not entirely sure what it’s about,” he said.
According to the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, state law does not allow Medicaid or state employee health benefit funds to be used for abortions unless the woman is at risk.
In 2015, 39,856 abortions were performed in Illinois, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health — an increase from 38,427 in 2014. The majority of abortions (10,794) were performed on women ages 20 to 24.
HB40 awaits a final vote on the House floor.
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