In the first week of his presidency, Barack Obama utilized the power of Executive Order to overturn the Global Gag Rule, a US policy that restricted foreign non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that receive US family planning funds from using their own, non-US funds to provide legal abortion services, advocate for abortion law reform in their own countries, or even provide accurate medical counseling or referrals regarding abortion.

Immediately after President Obama repealed the Gag Rule, the US bishops placed their own narrow interpretation of church teachings before the health and well-being of women around the world. Cardinal Justin Rigali, chairman of the bishops' Committee on Pro-Life Activities describing the decision as "very disappointing." Others however, including Catholics for Choice, praised the move and vowed to seek means to ensure that it would never be re-imposed by a future president.

Although President Obama's repeal means that the Gag Rule is not currently in effect, there is nothing to prevent a future president from reinstating it. The impact of the policy's instatement, repeal, and reinstatement is felt by women all over the world and undermines U.S. investments in global health and democracy.

The Global Democracy Promotion Act (GDPA) (H.R. 4879/S. 311), introduced by Rep. Nita Lowey (D-NY) and Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA), would eliminate that threat. This legislation would create a permanent, legislative barrier to attempts by any future administration to re-instate the Gag Rule. The measure is necessary to ensure that US-funded organizations can continue to deliver lifesaving information and services that meet the needs of women and families around the world.

Click here to contact your Members of Congress and tell them to co-sponsor this important legislation.

Catholics in the United States and elsewhere support aid for international family planning programs and reject abstinence-only education. Catholics support access to safe and legal abortion services and back family planning and condom use to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies.

Please write your Representative and Senators TODAY - it is vital that they hear from Catholics like you that support the permanent lifting of this dangerous policy.