A “Bill of Rights” for women veterans will help ensure their comprehensive and effective treatment while being “absolutely clear” that abortion is not health care, Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.) said this past week. On Nov. 30 the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5953, the Women Veterans Bill of Rights, by voice vote. It responded to recommendations to improve Veterans’ Affairs hospitals by expanding its gender-specific workforce to handle “the unique challenges that women face when transitioning to civilian life,” Rep. Smith explained. “Every American has a duty to respect, honor and support our Veterans,” he stated in Nov. 30 comments on the House floor.

The congressman had successfully requested the addition of language clarifying that the legislation’s definition of a “medical benefits package” did not include abortions and abortion counseling, in vitro fertilization, gender alterations, and membership in spas and health clubs.

“Because abortion methods dismember, decapitate, crush, poison, starve to death and induce premature labor, pro-life Members of Congress, and according to every reputable poll, significant majorities of “Americans want no complicity whatsoever in this violence,” Rep. Smith said.

“Abortion hurts women’s health and puts future children subsequently born to women who aborted at significant risk,” explained Smith. He cited studies showing increased psychological problems and possible breast cancer risks for women who have had abortions.